
It always happens the weekend before the kids go back to school doesn't it? You look around in confusion and wonder where the summer went. Just like each spring we vow to make this the best summer yet. Then all of a sudden it is September.
But before we read fall its post mortem eulogy there are some things we can do to squeeze the last bit of joy out of the warm weather. Here are a few ideas to help you finish off your summer.
ONE LAST DAY AT THE BEACH
Check the weather status and call in sick! Thats what you need to do to get your toes in the warm sand before it gets too wet and too cold. During the heat of the summer we are looking for the best shady spot, now get out your lounge chair and soak in the sun. If the water is too cold for a full swim, strolling up to your knees down the beach just might be the ticket.
A THREE HOUR TOUR...
Go boating! Whether it is a yacht, sailboat or kayak get on the water. Swimming may be out of the equation but that doesn't mean you can't lose yourself in the sun and the wind. Pull in the rays leisurely or get some exercise while paddling. Port Dover has a sailboat tours running until the end of September. Try out Rogue Tiger Charters. Its a beautiful boat and friendly people-not to mention affordable.
There are also many Grand River watershed areas in our region that you can kayak or canoe. Canoe Paris Ontario with Grand River Rafting.
INSTANT GRATIFICATION
If you don't have time for a water adventure there are many parks that you can sneak out for lunch to enjoy. Go sit on the grass or pick a bench by the water. Victoria Park has a nice pond and Waterloo Park has some nice walking trails that can get you back to nature quickly. I have a friend who often goes walking along the trails off Victoria St near Breslau at lunch time.
GRAVEL RUN
You can find the most amazing little towns if you get in the car and head to the country. We call it the 'gravel run'. Just point the car and go. Stop for lunch in a tiny cafe you just happened to find. Buy some of the last of the local produce available directly from the grower. Now is a great time to take advantage of hand picking from roadside stands. Covered bridges, winding roads, deer and local waterfowl are just a few of the wondrous sights you might see. Breath it in!
ACT LIKE A TOURIST
Do you have local markets, art shops, restaurants and boutique areas near you? Its not too hot, not too cold for a good stroll through your local shops (yes, you know-the ones that are on the street of your old town neighbourhoods-not in a mall). These days we all (including me) are in a hurry, we shop out of necessity and most often on line. Now is the perfect time of year to stroll, with a specialty coffee in hand, through the stores browsing and pondering on little trinkets, bits of jewellery etc.
Whatever you decide to do, there is still time to enjoy the summer warmth on your face. Do it now.
But before we read fall its post mortem eulogy there are some things we can do to squeeze the last bit of joy out of the warm weather. Here are a few ideas to help you finish off your summer.
ONE LAST DAY AT THE BEACH
Check the weather status and call in sick! Thats what you need to do to get your toes in the warm sand before it gets too wet and too cold. During the heat of the summer we are looking for the best shady spot, now get out your lounge chair and soak in the sun. If the water is too cold for a full swim, strolling up to your knees down the beach just might be the ticket.
A THREE HOUR TOUR...
Go boating! Whether it is a yacht, sailboat or kayak get on the water. Swimming may be out of the equation but that doesn't mean you can't lose yourself in the sun and the wind. Pull in the rays leisurely or get some exercise while paddling. Port Dover has a sailboat tours running until the end of September. Try out Rogue Tiger Charters. Its a beautiful boat and friendly people-not to mention affordable.
There are also many Grand River watershed areas in our region that you can kayak or canoe. Canoe Paris Ontario with Grand River Rafting.
INSTANT GRATIFICATION
If you don't have time for a water adventure there are many parks that you can sneak out for lunch to enjoy. Go sit on the grass or pick a bench by the water. Victoria Park has a nice pond and Waterloo Park has some nice walking trails that can get you back to nature quickly. I have a friend who often goes walking along the trails off Victoria St near Breslau at lunch time.
GRAVEL RUN
You can find the most amazing little towns if you get in the car and head to the country. We call it the 'gravel run'. Just point the car and go. Stop for lunch in a tiny cafe you just happened to find. Buy some of the last of the local produce available directly from the grower. Now is a great time to take advantage of hand picking from roadside stands. Covered bridges, winding roads, deer and local waterfowl are just a few of the wondrous sights you might see. Breath it in!
ACT LIKE A TOURIST
Do you have local markets, art shops, restaurants and boutique areas near you? Its not too hot, not too cold for a good stroll through your local shops (yes, you know-the ones that are on the street of your old town neighbourhoods-not in a mall). These days we all (including me) are in a hurry, we shop out of necessity and most often on line. Now is the perfect time of year to stroll, with a specialty coffee in hand, through the stores browsing and pondering on little trinkets, bits of jewellery etc.
Whatever you decide to do, there is still time to enjoy the summer warmth on your face. Do it now.