For those who live in the temperate zone summer started last June 21st. Let us toast  to the season. Yes, Summer is here!
At one point, I thought  summer was going fast forward to autumn. Such is the temperament  of the weather. At times, it is unpredictable. It must be frustrating for the meteorologists. However,  it helps to pay attention to the forecast.
Enjoy we must, the good warm days of summer. It goes so fast- and never long enough for all the  things planned for this summer. Some of us try to plan projects ahead. Yet, well into the season, those renovation plans are going slow, painfully slow. Grin and bear it- its not the end of the world. I try not to be a slave to my projects. There are endless interruptions that slow-down the process for me. So, I appreciate what is done, there is  always next summer.
Gardener:
Enjoy the fruits, the beauty of your garden and all that hard work. Savor the sweet scents floating  from your garden. Immerse your spirit in the colors  bursting from your flowers. Each flower offers an  attraction that is inviting even to a non-gardener.
Take the time to sit and meditate, relax. Take a book  outside and read to your heart's content. Catch up with your summer reading. Don't feel guilty about lazing around. It's good for your body, it's good for your spirit.
Dont let the weeds annoy you. By this time, they  are growing as faster than you can pull them out.  Think of your weeding as a great exercise, allows you to do your bending, walking , take some deep breathes and stretch as you.
Quieten your mind and you gain better perspective, deeper insights into life's daily challenges.
Traveler:
Drive to arrive. Safe travel starts with a safe vehicle and good driving habits, awareness of road safety and road courtesy, which the young ones can start to learn. Plan your trip carefully.
Have a good conversation with the family about the trip, keep the young ones informed and excited about where you're taking them. Teach them to be good passengers and not whine too much. Children love to be treated like adults.  This is a good time for children to learn to admire Natures beauty and bounty.
A good information about your destination would be helpful - this way, you will not lose precious time  trying to locate places. Make sure you have a good  emergency supply and first aid kit, flashlight , water and nibbles, important telephone numbers, cell phone  battery charged. A spare blanket can come in handy.
Dont push yourself too hard to get there. A good planning will ensure that the driver does not get  too tired to enjoy the trip. Happy travelling.
Housebound or no plans to go anywhere:
Don't fret. Get outside and enjoy the summer breeze,  listen to the birds singing, have a hummingbird feeder  and watch those little birds flap their wings furiously  as they enjoy their treat. If you dont have the energy to plant a garden, enjoy the beauty of a neighbors garden and tell them so.
Have some of your dear friends over for a short visit.  There are all kinds of take out food so you don't have  to slave over a hot stove. People are more than happy to come for a visit and wont even mind bringing some food. Make it a pot-luck event.
Read, listen to your favorite music, or just enjoy  the peace and quiet. Visit that friend youve been thinking about these past years!
The sociable:
Dont you just love having friends over for a barbecue!  Such fun. Those pesky and annoying flying insects are bothersome. There are good insect repellants. Light citronella candles, spread them around your yard. They dont only repel insects, the lit candles add an aura of  serenity . Burn some incense for aroma.
Here's to a fun summer to all.