You may have already read, I’m out to make this the best summer ever.
If you follow me on any social media, you’ll see #bestsummerever on my posts, tweets, pics, snaps, and instas.
That’s not to say that every day is going to be a dream day. That’s not to say that there won’t be some yuck going on behind the scenes. That’s also not to say my life is perfect. Because it most certainly isn’t.
But I’m choosing a different attitude this season. I’m setting out to live life to the fullest, and to make the most of not only this summer, but of each day.
Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should. Psalm 90:12 TLB
So far, it’s been a great start. I’m stretching myself. I’m learning some important things about myself. I’m finding living life to the fullest can be a challenge some days, and yet, I’m having a ball.
Here are 5 Ways I’m Making It The Best Summer Ever
1 – Start each day in thankfulness.
Before I even get out of bed, I thank God for a brand new day, and I ask Him to align the day ahead according to His plans and purposes for my life. I also ask Him to help me keep a thankful attitude throughout the day.
What are you thankful for today?
2 – Appreciate the moment.
Intentionally throughout the day, I’m pausing to appreciate the moment I’m in. It may not seem like much, but when doing so, I soak in the sights, the smells, the people I’m with, the places I’m at, everything. I’m finding, even if it’s not a pleasant moment, I’m able to see the good in it.
What moment are you finding yourself in? What can you appreciate?
3 – Step out of the comfort zone.
This is a big one. I recently had a conversation with a couple who can no longer ride their bicycles like they used to due to health issues. After sharing this with my husband, we became motivated to do all we can do while our health allows us to. So, my husband set a bucket list goal to bicycle in each of the 50 states, and since we ride a tandem bike, that means I go where he goes. Three weeks ago we started our #50statestandembiketour. We have four states down, and 46 to go. This is taking us out of our comfort zones, but we are enjoying the adventure. No, we won’t get to every state this year, but we plan to in the next few!
What is one thing you can do to step out of your comfort zone today? This week?
4 – Be intentional about creating memories with others.
I’m choosing to spend more of my time with a variety of special people in my life. I am honored to be a part of the lives of those around me, and I desire to create great memories with them. If I’m given the opportunity to spend time with others, I’m going to choose it, even if it may not be the simplest or easiest option.
Who is one person you can create a special memory with this week?
5 – Be spontaneous.
Being a planner at heart, I sometimes have to work at being spontaneous. (Am I saying I have to plan to be spontaneous?? Maybe.) This summer, I’m doing less planning, and allowing myself the gift of flexibility, the spur of the moment, and the impromptu. Sometimes the best times are the unplanned ones!
How can you be spontaneous today/this week?
I already know I won’t carry these five best summer ways out perfectly, but I’m sure having fun with them so far. They may not be for you, or you may have suggestions to add to this list. Either way, I’d love to hear from you.
I pray you have the best summer ever too! #bestsummerever
Blessings!
Julie
Linking this post with Holly for #TestimonyTuesday, and Kelly for #RaRaLinkup. You’ll be encouraged as you visit their spaces.
These are great tips! I’m a planner, too, so I’ll have schedule my spontaneity!! LOL Best wishes for your biking adventure! That sounds amazing!
We planners can learn from one another as we plan our spontaneity! Thanks for stopping by! Bless you!
Great ideas here, friend! I could use more spontaneity as well. I find the (ahem) “older” I get, the less spontaneous I am. I want to grow! Have fun biking.
I’m right there with you, Betsy! I want to grow too! Glad we can do it together! Blessings!
So neat to see how God has His people focus on similar things. I’m preaching Sunday, and God is leading me to talk about TODAY, not yesterday or the future. I love it! And I love you too, Julie!
What a gift to have you here, Barb! Thank you for sharing. Praying for you and your sermon. I love you too!
Love your list Julie! And how cool about riding in the 50 states!! Thanks for being a part of the #RaRaLinkup 🙂
Thanks, Katie! Hugs to you!
These are great tips! Thank you for sharing! I’m stopping by from the #RaRaLinkup!
Hi Stacey! Thank you for stopping by. I appreciate your words of encouragement! Bless you!
Such a light-hearted and joyful post! Yes, I’m trusting also for the #bestsummerever !
Thanks, Michele! We’ll stay in touch as we experience God through the summer. Thank you for being here!
Thanks for these tips..I definitely need to embrace spontaneity!
You and me, both, Kelly! So glad you stopped over. Have a blessed day!
Julie, such great suggestions for us all. I love that you are going to tandem bike in all 50 states. It will be fun to read all about it!
Thank you, Joanne! We’re looking forward to the adventure! Bless you!