Better Together — Summer Fun

This is our 3rd issue of ‘Better Together’. I thank everyone who sent in responses to the June blog on favourite authors and books.

When you think of summer days, what first comes to mind? Is it those long hours of daylight, the hot days, barbecues, ice-cream, going for a swim? You have heard the saying ‘lazy days of summer’ but for many it is the busiest time of the year. Think of all those workers who are only able to work in spring, summer and fall weather. Top of the list is likely construction of all kinds, particularly road construction. We always want to complain because of the detours or the inconvenience, but we also know that this kind of work can only be done in the warmer seasons. I often think about the folks working in the hot sun for long hours trying to make those roads safer for all of us. Our Tim worked at summer day camps when he was a teenager. He would come home sharing how hot it was outside – only to eat dinner and then go off to play baseball. I thought to myself, must only be hot if you are working outside, not playing. Now my granddaughters fill their summer days caring for children in day camps. There are so many workers working outdoors in the summer.

Then there are all the songs of the summer, that bring us together. Some oldies come to mind such as “Good Vibrations”, by the Beach Boys, “Dancing in the Streets” by Martha and the Vandellas, or “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves.  You each have your own that popped into your head, probably depending upon which decade your birthday is.

Along with the songs of summer are all the activities we enjoy doing together: going camping, hiking, sitting on a beach, watching a sunset, enjoying a barbecue or picnic. In the June ‘Better Together’ blog, I invited you to share your favourite summer activity. Read to the end for the invitation for our August post!

Paulette shares:  “my favourite summer activity is travelling home to Newfoundland, where I  was born. The peace I feel when the plane touches down, the love I receive from extended family, my memories of my grandparents’ home, my love of the ocean. Of belonging. The place I carry in my heart. The place where I am enough.”

Shelley shares: “My favourite activity is always a family barbecue on Canada Day weekend. In the last decade of my dad’s life it was hosted by my cousin Mike. Since Dad’s death, I now sit with my uncle Ernie around the barbecue and reminisce about so many moments with Dad. This brings me great joy as we keep Dad’s spirit alive and heal together.”

Karen shares: “Spending time with family and friends is something I look forward to with the beautiful summer weather. I always find the best moments are when we have last minute plans such as inviting a few people over for a barbecue or going to the beach with a friend. I really like gathering for no reason at all, to catch up and have a few laughs. It always makes me feel lighter and happier.”

Lisa shares: “One of my favourite things to do in the summer months is to spend time with my friends and family at the beach. I think it has a lot to do with the child-like atmosphere; everyone is laughing and splashing, building sand castles and just leaving the stresses of the world behind. My family and I have always been beach people before and after my injury. The atmosphere is very calming for me. The breeze off the water and the warmth from the sun is so healing for me, so relaxing and rejuvenating. Over the years I may not be able to get into the water as often as I used to but it hasn’t changed the camaraderie or the joy that comes with being with my friends and family at a place where we can all just relax and enjoy each other’s company. Find a beach to just relax and let the stresses of the day drift away with the waves and the laughter of friends and family brighten your spirit. Works for me!

I also enjoy a leisurely walk with my son and grandson. Picnics with family and/or friends can’t be beat. Picnics may seem old-fashioned in today’s society but they are a great way to disconnect from the stresses of work and reconnect with the people who are there with you.”

The common thread I found in these comments from our members is that being with others helps their mental state of mind. A pause outside of the current world events.

Coming up for August is your favourite foods for the barbecue. Can you smell your favourite cooking on the barbecue right now? Doesn’t that smell good! Please send me one of your ideas and we can share together. You can send them to [email protected].