Summer Rules for Adulthood

Happy summer (unofficially)!  As adults, sometimes summer is no different than any other time of the year. We still need to work, pay our bills and deal with other responsibilities. Gone are the days of school-age joy when that last bell rings and you are free for TWO WHOLE MONTHS! But there are still some perks to celebrating the season as an adult.

For me, my office is much more relaxed in the summer. It’s a time to get organized, catch up on projects and take vacation time. It’s also a great time to get a lot done at home. I usually clean out my closet, plant a garden (um, try to plant a garden) and work on craft projects that I sometimes don’t have time for in busier months.

But I feel there are so many “rules” as an adult that aren’t necessarily fun. For instance, eating healthy for that summer bod, writing checks every month and keeping up with housework. So, I’ve thought about some fun, summer rules to enjoy in adulthood.

1. Enjoy an adult beverage. Frozen daiquiri, pina colada, margarita or whatever strikes your fancy. Try something new or enjoy an old favorite. But a nice refreshing drink is perfect for the heat of summer.  Make it a point to enjoy a cocktail (responsibly), especially if you are at the beach or overlooking a body of water.
2. Read a romance novel. They are called beach reads for a reason! Find something light and entertaining and make time to read it cover to cover, even if it takes you all season.
3. Watch a movie in the park. Many local towns will play free or cheap movies in parks under the stars. Grab a blanket and some of your favorite movie candies and take a night to sit outside and watch a flick.
4. Ride your bike. Biking is great exercise and surprisingly freeing. Bike to work or rent bikes while you’re on vacation to see the local sites. Be a kid again and enjoy the great outdoors with a new view. Just don’t forget to obey the rules of the road.
5. Visit a local farmers’ market. Summer produce can’t be beat. Make it a day date or treat yourself to some alone time. Stock up on your favorite summer fruits and veggies and try a new recipe.  
6. Take a road trip. Even if you’re not going on vacation, take a day off and drive somewhere new. Roll down the windows, eat some local fare and enjoy the sights and sounds of being away from your normal grind.
7. Eat a snow cone. Or other frozen treat from an ice cream truck.  Nothing says summer than that catchy tunes of the ice cream man! Treat yourself to a sugary frozen treat, just like when you were a kid.  
8. Play in the park. So many summer memories involve my mom taking us to the park. Playing on the swings, running in the fields, exploring the woods. Who says that’s reserved for kids? Running around outside is good for the heart and soul.

Being an adult doesn’t mean you can’t have fun anymore. Take advantage of the longer, warmer days of summer and play by these rules. You’ll be sure to feel younger, freer and more relaxed when you let yourself enjoy the little things in life.

What are some “rules” you play by during the summer months?  Let me know if the comments below.