Saluting Summer...

Until yesterday, I had almost forgotten how amazing it is to spend an afternoon (or an entire day!) at the pool. Because our pool opened this weekend, and because my Saturday classes were canceled due to the holiday, Ben and I decided to make a day of it--and it. was. wonderful. Sure, I was wearing SPF 50 for Babies (yes, babies) and spent most of the day reading under an umbrella (sidenote: I still got burnt--in my BELLYBUTTON. Weirdest place you've ever heard of getting burnt? Yes, I agree), but I still think there is nothing like sitting outdoors by a body of water and relaxing...

As the day went on, we slowly canceled one plan or to-do-list item after another, until we had spent the entire day by the pool (minus our quick lunch break). Since we'll be moving soon and won't have a pool at our new place (sigh...the one thing I'll actually miss), we've decided to use our pool as much as possible in June in order to get our money's worth, and I'm already enjoying it because this extra encouragement is forcing us to relax. Glorious!

So how are you relaxing over this holiday weekend? Hopefully you've found a body of water to kick back and relax by, but if you haven't been able to get out of town or find a pool, here are a few ways to treat yourself:

• Pack up a picnic and take it to a park with a blanket. Bring a good book and kick back in the shade for the afternoon.
• Pick up a watermelon or your favorite seasonal fruits and make a big fruit salad. Put in the fridge so it gets nice and cold and then enjoy!
• Meet friends for brunch at a spot with outdoor seating. Make the meal last.
• Treat yourself to an ice cream cone or your favorite fro-yo. Nothing says summer more than an icy cold (and delicious) treat.
• Take an afternoon nap--even if it's beautiful outside. Feel free to shut the blinds and turn out all the lights and don't feel guilty about it. 
• Go on a long bike ride, run, hike, or walk outside. Bring your camera and take pictures of anything that inspires you!
• And the most obvious one, grill out! Nothing says summer more than a good old fashioned bar-b-q.
  

What other ways have you found to RELAX over the long weekend? Remember to take some time for yourself and soak in a bit of Vitamin D (only after lathering yourself in sunscreen, of course :)

Namaste!
Mary Catherine