Enjoying the Season

Three years ago, I remained in a constant state of paralyzed horror as the temperature remained at or above 100 degrees until the beginning of October.  I didn't know how to cope with a seemingly endless summertime and I certainly didn't know what activities I could safely or comfortably engage in given the sweltering nature of the season.  It was as mentally trying as it was physically sweaty and my attitude about our new home state suffered greatly.

Quack, Quack! Watching the ducks dive for their breakfast

I have learned a lot over the past couple of years and acclimated even more.  One of the biggest lessons learned to date is that we absolutely need to sneak back to the midwest at least once every summer in order to escape the heat and enjoy the warm breezes and lush greenery.  Our second lesson is to fit as many activities and errands into the morning as possible. 

Exploring a new-to-us trail in the area

Looking back on our first summer here, I distinctly remember making a post-nap grocery store run with baby Nicole at about 1:30pm in the middle of August.  She was going through a phase where she used her small but mighty body to resist any and all attempts to buckle her into her carseat but I hoped for the best as we headed out that afternoon.  I was feeling pretty good about the success of the trip until it came time to load up.  I had just tucked all of our groceries into the back of my stuffy car and was attempting to buckle Nicole up so we could head on home before our food spoiled.  Sensing an opportunity to exercise her muscles and communicate her distaste for her carseat, Nicole would have none of it.  I don't know how long it actually took me to get her safely strapped in, but I do remember it taking long enough for me to feel like the sun was going to swallow me whole.

Sunshine and water early in the morning :).  

I have not made any afternoon grocery runs in the summer months since then, and my relationship with the length of summertime has drastically improved as a result.  Knowing the right time of day to make the most of the season has also helped us to venture out more than we have on any summer previous.  We've been heading to our local pool on the weekends since May and the kids and I still take a (sticky) stroller walk most mornings.  It has been redemptive for me to head outside despite the heat to get some fresh air and enjoy the season we're in. 

I Hope you're having a great day!
Love,
Erica