How to Chill This Summer: A Checklist
Oh, summer how do I love thee... let me count the ways. Here's a checklist of my recommendations on how to chill all summer '18.
Skinny dip
As much as I live to be naked, my first time skinny dipping was only last spring in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. And it. Was. EXHILARATING!! The beach was basically empty. The ocean on north beach is turquoise in the day, and extremely tepid and shallow for at least 10 yards or more from the shore. And since it was nighttime and there was no one around, I was just like...
Spend the day at the beach (earthing)
Now that I know the virtues of a good sunblock, and have freed my mind from being concerned about my hair getting wet, I try to make my rounds to the beach weekly. And, preferably on a Sunday-- because Monday is my wash day, anyhow. I get my snacks, a good book, my sunhat and beach bag, and I'm out! And, if I can stick around for sunset with my feet in the sand, soaking up the mother earth vibes, then I really feel like I'm living my life right and am at one with the universe. Chasing sunsets and spending my time in nature is one of my greatest life pleasures.
Co-work at the pool
Nothing says I'm the boss of me like banging out a day's work, mid-week at the pool. And who better to chill with than friends? And... it's even more bawse-sauce if that pool is attached to the actual house we're in. Then, we can then meander back and forth to the kitchen for snacks and drinks all day until it's time to close shop.
Get a tan
I love a good no tan lines (safe) bake in the sun. I think I must be spoiled, because I find extreme tanlines to be vulgar. How you gonna be sexy with your back out and all kinds of weird crissy-crossy lines up and down your back? Those asymmetrical swimsuits are real fly until you have some place formal, grown and sexy to go to.
Make out
I mean would it even be summer if you didn't have a good make out session or a successful d*** appointment? 'Nuff said, right? Right.
Go camping
This is one summertime activity that has been on my list for a couple of summers now. Last year, I went glamping at Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe. But this year, I want the full outdoor experience like back when I went to sleep away camp. I looked in to the adult version. And I do believe this year will be the year to make it happen.
Hang out late
The extra daylight hours makes it much easier for me to parlay my day drinking into later hours of the evening. I mean, I might have to go take a nap in between. But when it's warm out, the chances of me allowing my friends and family to cajole me into an evening festivity goes up by at least 35%. If I'm already out and about, those chances shoot up by at least 85%. Summertime nights are the best! And we mine as well take advantage of them while we can.
Go to more happy hours with friends
Day parties are cool and all, but happy hours (and weekend brunching) are bae. I consider happy hour my personal after work reward for a job well done. And even if you can't find anyone to accompany you, fear not, a good happy hour will have plenty of other worker bees buzzing around, vaping fruit juice and buying $5 drinks.
Take a scenic drive
I'm fortunate to have grown up in one of the most picturesque areas in California. Hopping in the car to drive along Skyline Boulevard to Grizzly Peak gives you the most amazing vantage point to overlook the entire Bay Area. On a clear summer afternoon, it's truly awe-inspiring. So, the next lazy summer day when you're looking for something to do, hop in the whip and get out and explore-- even if you just wander into a new neighborhood.
Find a new fave vegan ice cream
Ever since I had this ah-mazing strawberries and cream vegan ice cream, I am on the hunt for the vegan version of all my faves from butter pecan to rocky road. Drop me some recommendations if you got 'em.
Invest in some new sunscreen
I know I'm always harping on the importance of skincare and sunscreen. And there are at least two new ones that I'm looking forward to trying this summer. One is made specifically for women of color, with claims to not cast that eerie white glow. And the other, well-- they had a demo video that had me sold. So, as soon as I get my hands on them both, you can expect a full review.
Watch a fireworks show
Nothing says summertime like fireflies and fireworks. I haven't seen a firefly in a couple of summers since I last visited down south. But, fireworks... now, those are pretty easy to come by. Nothing makes me feel all ooey-gooey inside like a beautiful summertime fireworks display.
Go someplace we’ve never been
I've been a couple of places, and seen a few things. But, this summer I'm really tryna get my butt to Colombia. It's been calling me, and I hope this is the summer I'll be able to jet down there for at least 2 weeks to a month for my birthday.
Every year is and adventure and as I come up onto Level 40 this summer, I expect this season to be nothing less than severely poppin'!
