We all have routines that we practice when the warm weather engulfs us. Beach visits, holidays at the theme park, playing at the community park, checking out books on the library summer reading list, enjoying outdoor sports, spending time with our family pets, enjoying more time in the sun and just relaxing in the lazy days of summer – all of these activities offer enjoyment.
Some people pick a more sedentary list such as bird watching, gardening or feeding multi-colored humming birds. On a recent trip to a arboretum I observed the consummate bird watcher. This person was equipped with every facet of his routine. Hat, shoes, clothing, glasses, change of clothes (in case of an emergency), binoculars, camera, tripod, cooler with appropriate snack (so as not to miss that perfect view), and small folding chair.
He had arrived early so that the perfect spot could be located and dedicated to his endeavor. Each item was carefully placed in its’ designated place (i.e., camera on top of the tripod ) before he attempted to make himself comfortable. It was obvious watching this bird watcher that the items of his summer routine were as important to him as the routine itself. He made sure that each item was in the correct place so that it could do its’ job.
This observation made me reflect that we all have summer routines. When we go to the beach, we take our towels, sunscreen, swimming suits, hats, drinks, coolers and ice. These items and the part they play in our summer routines are important and each is a “place holder.” If we forget to bring the ice, no one gets a cold drink, if we forget the sunscreen, we get a sunburn, if we don’t have a beach towel things get really sandy real quick…
So, as the days of summer are heading for their final days, let’s give a final nod to our routines and decide whether they are good or bad. Do we want to “shake” them up a bit or do we want to continue on with our “tried and true” routines because they work for us in our enjoyment of summer?
