Summer, like each season, holds a special magic that seems to create special memories for many people. As kids summer meant no school to worry about. It meant playing outside longer and hoping the temperatures would get really hot because then the sprinklers came on.

As adults summer means much of the opposite. many try to fit in extra school sessions and if the temperatures get too hot then we have to spend extra money to keep it cool. Not the same thrills that we aimed for as kids. However, as grownups it’s important to remember that play time can, and should exist for us too.

Just because we hit adulthood doesn’t mean we have to quit making fun summer memories. It also doesn’t mean we have to give up on reaching our education or financial goals. Sure things like school cost time and money but there is also a cost for forgetting to have fun. Fuddy-dud syndrome. Fuddy-dud syndrome can creep in and make life more stressful.

Of course I’m being facetious, but it really is important to try to do things that bring us simple joy. It’s does get difficult when we have so many responsibilities that we must prioritize; however, taking a break to sit in the sun with the sprinkler cooling your toes can be a simple refresher. Some of the simple pleasures are the most fun and memorable ways to savor summer.

A few weeks ago I did something that I rarely do. I took a magazine outside and sat on a blanket under the sun and just chilled for a while. I called a friend and let the dogs lay in the shade and I didn’t have to spend a dime to sit back and savor summer. If you find yourself needing to catch a break but don’t have time to take a vacation, you can still make great memories and relax without leaving your own backyard.

I’d love to hear how you chill out. Sometimes we forget some of the simple fun things that surround us. Remember flavoring ice cubes to make a cool treat on a hot day? What else do you do? Please share and remember to savor your summer! -ed