The dog days of summer are indeed upon us. But if you’re like me, you’ll still find fun to be had at the end of summer.
Many schools are back in session and family activities are winding down. Crowds are thinning out. And the weather might be perfect to get outdoors for summer fun.
Here are some ideas to help encourage you to get out and enjoy the sunshine.
Hit the Links
Full disclosure: I’m not a golfer and though I have taken lessons and tried my hardest, it just isn’t going to happen.
The courses here have undergone maintenance over the summer and are starting to green up and look pretty.
Where some of you live in milder summer climates, I’m sure the courses are gorgeous right now.
Hub took a drive to high country last week and played a course in the mountains for something different and a bit cooler.
Even with our toasty weather, the courses are quite busy in the mornings.
Hit the Courts
Pickle ball and tennis players swarm the courts in the early mornings and evenings after the sun retreats.
I really must say pickle ball seems to be more of an addiction than a game. Friends here play even during injuries. Crazy sport.
But pretty fun.
Hit the Water
Evon, Jenny, Deb and I have met the past few Sundays at the pool for refreshing outdoor time.
Jenny’s grandkids joined us the past couple weeks and they love making their grandma tired!
We were so lucky to enjoy two boat rides this year – one at Lake Pleasant and one at Big Bear. If you can get out on a boat in a beautiful lake or the ocean, a wonderful day is guaranteed.
Hit the Trails
The sun is rising later of course, so the mornings stay cool a little longer. I got out for a long morning hike this week.
There is nothing like a good walk listening to an audio book and visiting neighbors along the way.
A big Golden Retriever even snuck into my house looking for a treat. Yes, Teddy still loves us even though we no longer walk him. He knows where we live and is always alert for a little love and a dog cookie if he’s really lucky.
By the way, the cats were not happy to see him in their home!
Outdoor Games
I love going places where outdoor games are set up and you can just start playing at will. Our club created a new game spot with bocce ball, darts and outdoor games.
I am quite terrible at corn hole, but outdoor games are fun for a few minutes or longer, time permitting. It’s just that I will never play long enough to improve.
Hot Air Balloon
Hot air balloon rides in north Phoenix seem to go all year and are very busy in the winter. I cannot even imagine how cold the air must be up high in the early winter mornings.
But this morning! Balloons out above our neighborhood were so pretty and it seemed like it might have been a reasonable temperature in the sky.
If you want to ride a balloon, I won’t be joining you, but I’ll be applauding you 😉.
Wrap Up
We have some big summer plans coming up later this week and I’ll be sharing our journey with you as we go.
In the meantime, what are you doing to extend your summer fun?