​​​"Dandelion", EF Grace

10 simple ways to soak up summer 
(when you feel like staying low-key)

ef grace. Summer 2021.

Thoughts of summer are often heavy with images of beach visits, festivals, travel, and summer parties. Well, what if that type of summering is not for you?
​There are ways to enjoy the season even if you're not up for crowded busy outings or long complicated trips.
​
Soak up summer with these 10 simple pleasures, even when you feel like staying low-key. 

1.​ Take in a day at the park.

Tired of being at home, but not ready for crowds? The grass just might be greener at your local park. Read a book under a tree, take a pause on a bench, hey, fly a kite if the spirit (and the wind) moves you! It's a great way to get out among people, but still soak in the YOU time. (Just be sure to check ahead to be sure no events are scheduled in the park that day!) 

2. Air-dry your laundry.

Why not? Even the small time out in the fresh air and sunlight will do you good , save energy, and give you a break from screen-time.

​3. Savor summer fruits and recipes.

Take advantage of all the delicious offerings of summer's bounty. Enjoy juicy summer fruits in season from your local farmer's market. Try out new recipes with fresh garden herbs and veggies.

4. Eat outside.

No huge fuss required (unless you want to)! Sip your coffee to a warm summer sunrise, throw a blanket in the grass and enjoy your lunch, or plan a sunset dinner out on the deck.

5. Love your garden.

While we're on the subject, one of the most satisfying things is enjoying the fruits of your labor--literally. Whether it's an impressive patch or a beloved container garden, give your garden some TLC and it will reward you in kind.

6. Hide under a leaf in the rain.

Not exactly jumping in puddles, but you could still linger in a sunshower a bit to cool off after a steamy day. Even if you're not quite up to getting wet, you can still crack that window open and take in the soothing sounds of a rainstorm.

7. Get near moving water.

The sound of moving water does wonders for the soul. If you can't make it out to an ocean or river, get thee to a stream, sprinkler, garden hose, fountain, even a car wash!

​8. ​Experience the nature of things.

That moment when you watch a little wren splash in the birdbath or notice bees making their rounds... When you take just 5 minutes to listen to the conversations of birds and bullfrogs, or watch the fireflies play hide and seek, you just might realize you are part of it all. Treasure these mindful moments.

9. Bring summer into your space.

Let summer inside! A bright bloom freshens your tabletop, a majestic palm becomes a beautiful accent to a sunny home office, and a sprig of hand-picked basil makes a home cooked meal even better! 

10. Do nothing at all.

It's ok. You have permission. Settle back on your porch, your deck, your stoop, or lounge in that warm breeze coming in your window.
Rest, meditate, or go ahead and officially declare today a lazy day of summer. It's summer...soak it in.   ~efg

EF GRACE​ 
ARTS. INSPIRATION. LIFESTYLE. DESIGN.

efgracearts@gmail.com | efgrace.com | @efgracearts
​visual arts * design * illustration * writing * multimedia * custom services

c. ef grace 2021.