Summer Fun

The summer days are getting shorter, fading away to gradually begin a new season, Fall. Before the leaves begin to change color and schedules become more rigid once again, make sure to soak up the remaining carefree days of summer.

Walk around barefoot as much as possible, picnic and BBQ and attend baseball games, turn the TV off and enjoy the evening sitting outside with candles and torches. Believe me, you'll be longing for these days in the dead of winter when we feel that summer will surely never come again.

The essence of summer...

the smell of hamburgers sizzling on the grill

Try this link for the "best ever" hamburger recipe
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Best-Hamburger-Ever/Detail.aspx

skinny-dipping in a lake under the stars

a day spent hiking, canoeing, and picnicking at a National or State Park

Go to www.stateparks.com/usa to find one in your state

the sound of late-night thunderstorms

ice cream

reading a good book at the pool or the beach while soaking up the sun

free summer concerts at State Fairs

Go to www.weekendevent.com/statefairs to find out more about your state fair and concerts

rosy cheeks and natural highlights

sidewalk sales

riding in a convertible with the top down

farmer's markets on Saturday morning

strawberry picking and homemade strawberry pie

outdoor cafes

getting fresh and clean and putting a cute sundress over sun-kissed skin after a long day in the sun

campfires and roasted marshmallows

baseball games

the smell of fresh cut grass and fresh flowers

long days and bright, full August moons

This Summer, here's what's HOT and what's NOT:

HOT:

squirting lemon juice in your hair in the sun

NOT:using Sun-In

HOT: going low-key with natural make-up or tinted moisturizer and lip gloss

NOT: caking on heavy foundation eye makeup that runs off in the sun

HOT: wearing SPF even on cloudy days to protect your skin and achieve a healthy glow

NOT: lathering on baby oil and baking in the sun, showcasing the leathery-skin look

HOT: getting exercise outside by walking, bike riding, swimming, hiking, etc.

NOT: driving your car everywhere with the air-conditioning on, guzzling gas

HOT: pretty, painted toes and soft feet

NOT: scraggly, untrimmed toenails and calluses

HOT: buying local produce or growing your own garden

NOT: buying over-processed, over-priced foods with gluten and preservatives

HOT: wearing cute, embellished flip-flops at a backyard BBQ or the beach

NOT: wearing sky high stilettos to a casual BBQ

HOT: opting for a "stay-cation" where you explore and support your local area and attractions, saving money and gas

NOT: dragging an unwilling family across country for hours each day in the car or taking a vacation you can't afford