I always like to make a summer bucket list around the first day of summer, along with getting an ice cream cone to officially kick things off. This year, though, it didn’t quite happen that way. I usually make a cute poster to hang in my office as a reminder to get out and enjoy all the fun things summer has to offer. Instead, this year I’ve resorted to my trusty whiteboard. And I definitely need to make up for my lack of ice cream outings!

I did make it to Handel’s for National Ice Cream Day on July 19th. I’ve also enjoyed a few ice cream bars at home for dessert, but it’s just not quite the same.
We’re already halfway through summer, and I still have lots left to cross off my list. Better get busy enjoying life!
One thing I really enjoy during the summer is making fruit-infused water. Between the heat and teaching, I know I need to drink more water than I usually do, and this definitely helps. I’ve only made it once so far this summer, but I’m determined to keep it going. Let’s see what flavor combinations I come up with for the rest of the season! (I’m definitely extending summer through Labor Day…maybe even until October 1st. After that, Halloween shirts officially take over!)
Today’s water combination is a simple lemon-lime. I’ve already decided the next pitcher will be my classic cucumber-mint, one of my all-time favorites. This pitcher makes it so easy—just chop up the fruit, toss it into the infuser basket, fill with water, and let it chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. (It should probably sit longer, but I’m not that patient!) Once the pitcher is about halfway empty, I refill it with more water. I can usually get a couple of refills before it’s time for fresh fruit.
So…what fruit combinations will I end up trying this summer?
I guess you could say I’m on a hydration kick! I finally found a 40-ounce water bottle with a lid that closes securely (no leaking straw!) and, best of all, it fits in my car’s cup holder. Sundays are long workdays for me, so having a large bottle helps me stay hydrated without constantly stopping for refills. Thanks, Ms. Amber, for the recommendation! I only wish they had a brighter blue, but the Iced Breeze color is growing on me.
Here are a few things I’ve been checking off my Summer Fun List:
Coloring & Crafting – Card workshops are always one of my favorites, and I’ve even started working on my Christmas cards!
Try 5 New Ice Cream Flavors – Orange Chocolate from Handel’s is definitely at the top of the list so far.
Reading Daily – Mission accomplished! I just need to remember not to stay up until 2:00 a.m. reading because it makes for a very long next day. I’m definitely not as young as I used to be!
Plants – I’m running a little late on this one, but I’m hoping to find some today!

I’m looking forward to making the most of August and packing in even more summer fun! Today’s adventure is Palm Springs. I know it will be hot, but it will also be FUN, and now I have a great big water bottle to keep me hydrated while relaxing by the pool.
Check back for more summer updates!
Happy Summer!
Kelly
