How to Enjoy the Last Days of Summer

In just a few weeks, school will be back in full session, some will be returning from vacation, the new fall shows will kick off and many will be relocating for new jobs and careers (the lucky ones). I hope that everyone's summer has been great and continues to be so through August. And I hope that you were able to do the following: A few simple but essential things (mostly inexpensive or free) for an enjoyable season. If you haven't yet, it's not too late!

VISIT A FARMER'S MARKET-Besides the obvious health benefits of fresh fruit and veggies, there's just something very special and fun about buying from an open-air place, isn't it? In some major cities, farmer's markets are often held in large buildings that remind me of airplane hangars. Besides fruit and veggies, there are also breathtaking and endless varieties of fresh meat, seafood, fresh pastries, cheese, beverages, and at least a few food items that you don't see regularly or have never heard of. You can have a tasty lunch, snack or even free samples while you're shopping or looking around. Even if you don't buy a thing, you'll never be bored (Many people take their kids, other relatives or friends along and make a day's event out of it). What a treat!

APPRECIATE NATURE-Now I'm not saying to go out and jog when it's 90 degrees (or higher). When the temperature's comfortable and weather permitting, you should take full advantage of the great outdoors (Because winter will be here soon enough).Go to your local park and walk in it. Go to the beach and swim; walk on the sand or along the shore. Build a sandcastle. At least once this summer, be by a large body of water like a lake, ocean, river, pond, waterfall and "soak" up the atomsphere. Inhale the smell of fresh-cut grass; run barefoot on it (Those of you with dogs may want to disregard this-or run very carefully).

HAVE SOME ICE CREAM, AND/OR-Partake of an ice slushy (slushie?) or iced tea. Go on a picnic; you can get your fill of nature, cool off and eat summer food too!

HAVE A SUMMER ADVENTURE-Do something or go someplace memorable that you'll treasure forever. If you're on a budget, attend a free outdoor festival (Bring your own food or snacks to save money) or concert in the park. Go to a local parade (Perhaps you'll even get to march in one!); explore that new store, restaurant or mall you've heard so much about-just buy or order something cheap. (Sometimes the best summer adventures are those that are totally unexpected; this particular summer will be one of my most memorable, business-wise!).

READ A BOOK-and a paperback or two. Read for the sheer joy of it, to relax, or to re-learn something you forgot. Seriously, reading anytime promotes good brain health.