8 OF THE BEST Summer Favorites

I think Root Beer floats, drive-in movies, and Sonic when I think of my childhood summer. These warm California nights had little structure and life slowed down enough to enjoy it. I want my kids to remember these summer nights on the patio and the days spent with no agenda except loving life. I’m not sure if it’s the age of my kids or the empty schedule, but I do not want this season to end. I have loved the sunshine and the rainy days. Here are 8 of the best summer favorites.

1. Adirondack Chairs

First, these chairs were the best purchase of the summer by far. We built our patio three summers ago, but this is the first year we used it every day instead of our screened-in porch. I drink coffee out here in the mornings and brave mosquitoes in the evenings. We almost compromised for 2 chairs instead of 4, to save money, but I’m so glad we got all 4. These are the chairs.

2. Movie Nights on the projector

Our family loves movie nights together. We have gotten our money’s worth from our projector! This projector is used all year long, but in the summer, we take it outside and pair it with our Bluetooth speaker. We have watched Sonic 3, Moana 2, The Frozen musical, and classics from the 90’s. My heart is full when we are together watching a movie. My husband even introduced me to Top Gun this summer.

3. Snack Charcuterie Plate

I try to be home after lunch to rest. Once I get the kids settled, I go downstairs and make myself a charcuterie snack plate. It feels fancy and like a big hug to get me through the afternooon.

My Snack plate includes:

Cheeze its or popcorn
Nuts
Chomp stick or yogurt
Fruit such as peaches, cherries, or grapes
Chocolate for an extra treat

PRO MOM TIP: Make more than you want, so you have enough to share- you will be sharing.

4. The American Flag

Josiah got a room makeover this summer, and I found the perfect wall for a flag! Next summer I plan on adding lots of red, white, and blue decor. It screams summer! This flag is a find. I loved how this flag isn’t stark white! Check out the post on how I prepare the kids’ rooms for the summer. His room makeover post will be coming soon!

5. The Shark and Pool Days at home

We have loved pool days out, but there’s something so easy and cozy about having water play in the backyard. I honestly wish I had invested in a water slide sooner. It’s work to get it set up, but we leave it up for a few days before taking it down. We keep ours in a deck box to help it last. Happy Hop is the brand we purchased, but this one is a similar water slide.

6. Reading

I have been reading more this summer and working through the book Strong Mothers, Strong sons. It’s a good read, but deep and slow. In addition, I am reading this book (triggered)in the mornings as a devotional to keep the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart.

7. Weekly Manicures

I prioritize self care during the summer. Mostly, I make time to pamper my nails and hands at home each week. My nail routine includes treating my cuticles, shaping, painting my nails, and moisturizing. What is it about painted nails that makes me want to take on the world?! I like this manicure set, and here is the link to my bag.

8. Garden

My garden has been so grounding this year. I have struggled in the past to enjoy it. Perhaps it’s the never-ending rain or my need to slow down and watch God’s creation bloom in front of my eyes. It has been a blessing this year and I hope to become more organized with my planning in the future.

Those are my favorites this summer. Mostly, we are living a very quiet and boring life and I’m here for it. Soaking up my kids and resting as much as we can. If you are in a hard season this summer, you are almost there! Take time to fill your cup and soak it up. The days are so long, but the years are short. Next Summer, it will be different. There is a season for everything, so embrace what this season holds for you. What are some of your favorite things this summer?