Ahhh, the sunny days of May prepare my family and me for Summer! School is almost out for the children (thank goodness for no more homework or trying to relearn fractions!), and this is the month where I begin to plan family activities. 

I love the Summer holidays, giving us a reason to celebrate, and who doesn’t want an excuse to gather together. One holiday that gears us up for in summer mode is Memorial Day! Usually, our home has been decorated with summer colors and vibrant plants (here’s a blog post for simple ways to create a summer vibe).

Usually, by Memorial Day, the house is decorated, the grill is cleaned, and we gear up for the end of the school year, leaving us ready to spend some time in our backyard to play board games and bond with one another. Summer sunsets and early evenings are reasons the upcoming season fills me up with joy. Walks along the beach picking sea shells or spending time creating bonfires (roasting marshmallows, of course!) is another opportunity for bonding without the rush school responsibilities.

Here are a few other ways I gear up for Summer:

Reading list:  While Summer reading may have an elementary feel to it, as a family we like to create a summer reading list. I believe it’s important to read even one book together as a family. It’s a different avenue of bonding and another topic at the dinner table as a family. 

Outdoor games/sports: Who doesn’t love outdoor fun!? Backyard scavenger hunts are a favorite in our household. Scavenger hunts are great for all ages, and you can customize them any way you wish. You may or may not see a scavenger hunt in an upcoming kit! 

Summer foods: Food off the grill screams summer to me, grilled chicken, grilled vegetables (kabobs!)  as well as homemade lemonade, and fun attempts to whip up a flavored ice cream together. I also love the fruits that are in season, everything from blood oranges, watermelon to cherries! 

What are some ways you gear up for summer pre-Memorial Day weekend (here’s a checklist to help you plan)? Do you have any favorite foods or fruits you tend to enjoy more? 

Please share with me on Facebook or Instagram, and don’t forget to use #CraftyHolidayHelper!

Stay crafty,

Jaime