Well, I thought this summer was going to be a hot girl summer, but I was wrong.

Like most people, as 2019 came to a close, I had my adventures all planned out for 2020—especially the summertime. I was going to be unapologetic and embrace my body while being beautiful, bold, and balanced. I was planning to laugh more, love more, travel more, and do some things I never get a chance to do while living a fun-filled blissful summer.

I’m a tropical kinda girl, too, and I love feeling the beach sand between my toes while walking hand and hand with my husband along the seashore. Nothing beats hearing the peaceful sound of roaring tidal waves at sunrise and sunset. And the best of all is gazing upon the ocean as far as you can see. It’s magical! 

But, COVID-19 happened, and just like that, my plans got derailed. 

Although some of my plans have changed, I thought to myself, why not be a bodacious blogging boss babe and share my favorite things about the summer. If I can’t fully enjoy my long list of fun to-do’s during the summer, certainly, I can write about them. 

All is not lost! And certainly, I can still enjoy a lot of things, despite the world going through a major pandemic crisis. 

Here are five of my favorite things about the summer:

Travel

Summertime means summer vacation. Every year, my husband and I plan a trip (usually somewhere tropical) to celebrate our anniversary, which is in May. And another trip or two with the kiddos during (June through August). Our planned vacations allow us an opportunity to decompress, rekindle our love for each other, and bond with our kids. It’s our time to unplug from all of the busyness of our daily lives. Once we return, we’re rejuvenated and ready to conquer the busyness of family life again. 

Attire

I’m a writer who loves fashion. When the summer is ready to make her grand debut, my attire is, too. My philosophy for the warmer months is cool, cute, and comfortable—you can never go wrong with that. It’s a win-win. A maxi dress paired with a pair of Tory Burch sandals, an over-sized handbag, and shades is an ideal outfit go-to for me. 

Running 

Typically, because Alabama is notorious for sweltering heat, I choose to wake up at 5:30 AM and go for a run four-five days out of the week. And believe it or not, the temperature is bearable early in the mornings. Going for a nice run at sunrise is pleasant and therapeutic. Running is one of my favorite things to do when stress tries to creep into my life. It’s also my alone time to think, meditate, listen to music, or some of my favorite podcasts. And if I want a much more relaxed vibe, I’ll take a nice stroll through my neighborhood at dusk. 

Backyard BBQ

Cooking out in your backyard and eating mouth-watering BBQ is a slice of heaven. Especially, a savory ribeye or t-bone steak on the grill (seasoned just right). Invite family and friends over and have good conversations and fellowship while the kiddos play hide-a-seek, or take a dip in the pool. 

Picnic

This is an outdoor activity that could be romantic and intimate or a fun-filled family adventure for everyone to enjoy. With my family, we go picnicking by a beautiful lake in a shaded area—overlooking the lake and enjoying tasty treats. I even have a striped pink picnic blanket, a huge dainty picnic basket, and I wine carrier for the hubs and I that I bring along. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. 

What do you love about the summer?