July’s Spark of Joy

If you are like me, you want to take full advantage of the warmer months. Below are some ideas for July. Pick and choose what sounds doable for you at the moment.

Try your hand at watercolors - Sitting outside and even capturing the collage of colors the season brings in watercolor seems so calming. No need to stay in between the lines; just let the painting muse take you where it wants to go.

Have a picnic - No, you don’t need a special basket of fancy foods. Romantic, yes, but even grabbing a deli sandwich and eating outside counts. There is something magical about having a meal in wide-open space.

Read “Alice in Wonderland” - This is one of my favorite books. Alice is a curious, quiet rebel; reading the tale of her adventures can spark joy in your life too.

Pick blueberries - If you have the ability to visit a blueberry farm and pick your own, take the opportunity.

Make your life simple, give something away - Not a whole closet, just one thing that you don’t use anymore. Something that doesn’t represent you anymore but could be useful to someone else.

Listen to classical music - If you need a starting point to dip your toes into the magical world of classical music, search for “Summer - The Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi. While it plays, imagine calming thoughts of the season.

Take a nap - Sometimes the best thing to do is to take a nap or at least close your eyes and take a break.

Read a paperback book - There are paperback books everywhere; grab one and curl up and enjoy the adventure.

Reinvent a grilling recipe - Pizza on the grill? Why not! Plain burgers? How about grilling meatballs instead! Let your imagination lead the way.

Treat yourself to ice cream - A soothing treat on a summer day.

PS - If you liked this post, consider signing up for “Recess for Grown-Ups”. It is my tiny email escape while we untangle life. It’s a small space to rest, no fixing needed. Join below.