Ah, summer. Sunny days, grilling out, and fireflies at dusk. Longer days and summer vacations also mean more downtime, play time, and hopefully more family time!
With festivals, concerts, and markets closed, and continued physical distancing due to Covid-19 initially I was at a loss for what to do this summer….but then I remembered my pre-Sweets tradition of creating a seasonal bucket list. You can click the link here to see my 2015 summer bucket list.
Coming up with a physical bucket list is motivation (for me as a to-do-list lover) but also super handy when boredom strikes, and things need to be shaken up.
A word of advice: make a first draft of a summer bucket list before involving the kids. That way you are clear on priorities before the kids add their “contributions.” (And there will be many!)
Summer Bucket List Brainstorming
Some questions to get the ball rolling are:
What are our favorite things to do? What leaves us feeling recharged? How can we do more of those things this summer?
What are our least favorite things to do? What do we need a break from? How can we minimize or manage those things this summer?
I also keep a running note in my phone of all our favorite activities, so we can revisit old favorites.
Find a Theme
Sometimes a theme emerges. If that is the case for you, consider coming up with a simple word or phrase that captures your goals for the summer. Display the word around the house to build excitement and remind you to look at the list! Better yet, you could post the list on the fridge for daily reminders.
On to the summer bucket list…
Here is what is left of our summer buck list. The best part? Most of these are free or very low cost.
- Backyard camp out
- Visit a beach
- Have a luau
- Go on a hike or nature walk
- Bike ride and picnic dinner (During the week)
- A projector + outdoor wall = outdoor movie!
Have Fun!
Making a summer bucket list is always fun and never a chore. The important part is to look at it as family inspiration and not a “to-do” list. Even if we don’t get to all of our wish list, this summer bucket list reminds us to spend quality time together and try new things, whether we’re out adventuring or at home.
I’ve shared mine… I’d love to see yours! What will your family be up to this summer?
