Soaking Up the Last Bits of Summer – A to Z Guide

As summer winds down, there’s no better time to savor every last moment of the season. The gentle shift from the intense heat of midsummer to the cooler, crisper days of late summer offers a unique opportunity to relish in the seasonal pleasures that might otherwise be overlooked.

With each sunset, the days become a bit shorter and the warmth a little less intense, making it the perfect moment to embrace the essence of summer in its final chapters. This transitional period is ideal for making the most of outdoor activities, enjoying seasonal foods, and soaking in the relaxed vibe that summer brings before it fades into fall.

A is for… Alfresco

Set up a charming outdoor dining area with a stylish table and comfortable chairs, perfect for enjoying meals surrounded by nature. Add a few cozy blankets and lanterns to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings. For an extra touch, hang some string lights or café lights to illuminate the space beautifully as the sun sets.

B is for… BBQs

Nothing screams summer like a good old barbecue. Fire up the grill and bring out those easy-to-cook, crowd-pleasing recipes. Grilled peaches, grilled chicken, grilled veggies – yum! I’m hungry just thinking about it.

C is for Campfire S’mores

Nothing says summer like the classic campfire treat—s’mores! Gather around the fire with friends and family for a fun and nostalgic experience. Add peanut butter, caramel, or flavored chocolate to experiment with different flavors. Try using bananas, cookies, or brownies instead of graham crackers for an added twist.

D is for… Drinks with Friends and Family

Set up a DIY drink station with various beverages like sparkling water, iced tea, and fruit-infused cocktails or mocktails. Add fresh garnishes like mint, citrus slices, and berries to elevate the flavors and presentation. Create a signature drink for your gatherings, or mix up a batch of sangria for everyone to enjoy. A good wine bucket is a must.

E is for… Easy Entertaining

Speaking of DIY drink stations! Opt for buffet-style meals and self-serve drink stations. Make it effortless for you and enjoyable for your guests.

F is for… Floaties

Enjoy the pool or a lake with fun floating accessories like inflatable loungers, giant floats, or pool games. Create a relaxing oasis with floatable cushions, or try a floating drink holder for ultimate relaxation.

G is for… Gardening

You know how I love to garden. Marigolds, zinnias, and petunias are vibrant choices that attract pollinators, while tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini make delicious additions to your summer meals. Don’t forget to water early or late in the evening to keep your plants hydrated and happy. Create a relaxing space within your garden with a comfortable chair or hammock, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the fruits (and flowers) of your labor.

H is for… Hydrangeas

Choose from shades of blue, pink, or white, and even change the bloom color by adjusting the soil’s pH level. Hydrangeas are also perfect for fresh-cut arrangements. Let them dry out to a lovely hue so you can enjoy their beauty throughout the fall season.

I is for… Ice Cream

What’s summer without a little ice cream? While I haven’t made the purchase yet, I strongly believe this Ninja Creami will appear in our house this year (wink, wink).

J is for Juicy Fruits

Indulge in the season’s bounty by enjoying juicy fruits like peaches, watermelons, and cherries. Use them in refreshing salads, smoothies, or desserts to add natural sweetness to your summer menu.

K is for… Kindness

After my dad passed away, I found myself reflecting deeply on life. I realized that while kindness costs nothing, its impact is immeasurable. A simple act of compassion can have a profound effect, and in the wake of loss, I’ve come to cherish how far a little kindness can go in brightening someone’s day and strengthening our connections with each other.

L is for… Lights

Cafe lights add a warm, inviting ambiance, perfect for evening gatherings or quiet nights under the stars. Hang them over your patio, along your fence, or between trees to create a magical canopy of light.

M is for… Morning Magic

Start your day with a coffee in your favorite outdoor spot. It’s a serene way to enjoy the calm before the summer day’s activities.

N is for… Nature

Reconnect with the great outdoors this summer by immersing yourself in nature. Whether it’s hiking through a scenic trail, taking a leisurely walk in the park, or simply enjoying a picnic under the shade of a big tree, spending time outside is rejuvenating for both mind and body.

O is for… Outdoor Movie Nights

Set up a projector or hang a TV on a covered wall for a cozy movie night under the stars. Bring out the popcorn and blankets!

P is for… Popsicles

Cool off with homemade popsicles using fresh fruit juices, yogurt, or coconut milk. Experiment with flavors like berry-lime, mango-coconut, or peach-basil.

Q is for… Quick Crafts

Engage in quick and easy summer crafts like making a citronella mason jar or this lovely lavender linen spray.

R is for… Reading

Set up a reading nook by a window or shaded garden area. My favorite reads this summer? The Last Mrs. Parrish, It Ends with Us, Finding Freedom, and all my favorite home decor books.

S is for… Salads

Who wants to cook when it’s hot out? I love a big, hearty salad in the warmer months. With juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and sweet corn at the peak of their flavor, the options are endless. Toss in some fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or mint to add a burst of freshness. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle in toasted nuts, crumbled cheese, or a handful of berries.

T is for… Twilight

As the sun sets, the temperatures drop, offering a pleasant respite from the day’s heat. Twilight is that magical time of day when the sky transforms into a canvas of soft hues, and the world takes on a serene, calming glow. Embrace this enchanting time by planning twilight activities like evening strolls or twilight picnics.

U is for… Unplugging

In our hyper-connected world, unplugging can be surprisingly challenging but incredibly necessary. Constant notifications, emails, and social media updates often pull us away from the present moment, making it hard to fully engage with our surroundings and loved ones. Setting aside dedicated time to unplug from screens and digital distractions is crucial for mental well-being and fosters genuine connections.

V is for… Vintage Finds

Visit flea markets and antique stores for unique vintage decor that adds character to your summer space.

W is for… Window Boxes

Brighten your windows with a beautiful box of flowers, vines, and herbs.

X is for… Extra Shade

Create shady spots with canopies, pergolas, or umbrellas to make your outdoor space comfortable all day.

Y is for Yellow Hues

Incorporate sunny yellow tones into your home decor for a cheerful and bright atmosphere. For a pop of this happy hue, we chose this yellow and white striped umbrella.

Z is for… Zero Waste

Embrace a more sustainable summer by reducing waste in your daily life. Start by swapping out single-use items with reusable alternatives like cloth napkins, stainless steel straws, and beeswax wraps. For grocery shopping, bring your own bags and opt for products with minimal packaging. Try composting food scraps and yard waste at home to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

There you have it—a full alphabet of ideas to make your summer spectacular!

Share this Post