Celebrate You!

(June 2011) - This summer as you commit to a fun summer schedule of cookouts, weddings, sporting events and other get-togethers, be sure to schedule some time for yourself. Even if you have to write it down on a calendar to declare this time as sacred, it’s important to take a few moments to enjoy a little rest and relaxation on your own terms. Here are a few ideas on how to make that goal a reality.

• Backyard Oasis: Sometimes all you need is a glass of lemonade, a hammock, a good book or an iPod to shut the world out and feel like you’ve gotten some rest. Try to set aside some time to just be by yourself and recharge your batteries.

• Go Retro: Remember the days of listening to a baseball game on the radio and relaxing on your front porch? No? Well trust us, it’s worth a try. It stretches the imagination as you visualize each play and it is also quite relaxing!

• Party of One Always has fun: When was the last time that you got to pick your dinner location, movie, or date activity? Well, then it’s high time that you took yourself out on a date! If you feel uncomfortable with the idea of dining alone, bring along a book or journal to write in. A few hours of solitude spent seeing a movie or wandering around a museum can also do wonders to calm the spirit.

• Seasonal shopping: Summer is great for checking out the outdoor flea markets and farmer’s market. Commit to learning something new—either ask a collector about their wares or a produce vendor about the proper way to select and prepare a vegetable you’ve never tried.

• Expand your Crafting Education: Speaking of learning something new, have you always wanted to learn how to quilt, quill, or another classic craft? Check out your local craft store’s class schedule and sign up to learn something new.