This summer may be a bit different from past summers, okay a lot different… LOL. Summer during COVID-19 hasn’t been the traditional summer vacations, backyard barbecues with friends, summer concerts or late night dinners in beautiful restaurants. Adjusting to our new “normal” as we continue to social distance, has been challenging for many us. As we begin to slowly reopen restaurants, gyms, parks, hiking trails and beaches we must still be cautious for everyone’s safety. Even though 2020 has been a bummer, with canceled graduations, events, conferences, sports and so on, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your family.
If you’re looking to enjoy your summer, try some of the things our family has incorporated while staying safe and social distancing.
1. Make Some Home Upgrades
Our life has become a staycation, therefore we’ve made a few adjustments at home to make our home more enjoyable. We’ve purchased lounge chairs, a new patio set, umbrella and outdoor games such as cornhole and horseshoe.
2. Pick Up A New Outdoor Activity
Whether it be gardening, painting, having a picnic or watching sunsets, spending time outdoors will make you feel warm and fuzzy.
3. Camp Out or Do a Campfire In Your Backyard
Our backyard is literally a campsite. We’re surrounded by mountains, bears, coyotes and other wildlife. Therefore it feels pretty realistic. Maybe make some s’mores with the kiddos or enjoy a nice romantic evening with your significant other.
4. Go To The Beach or Lake
Whether you enjoy fishing, surfing, paddle-boarding, kayaking or body boarding. Go to to the beach and remember to stay six feet away from others. You can also go to the marina and rent a Duffy boat or a Pontoon like we did in Long Beach.
5. Have Lots Of BBQs
We just purchased a new Weber Grill. Since restaurants haven’t completely reopened, we have been spending a lot of time cooking at home. My family and I have enjoyed trying new recipes while appreciating the beautiful California weather.
6. Start A New Family Tradition
I love to cook, therefore I’ve been spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Our family now has a Taco night every Tuesday, so we plan to prepare a new recipe every week.
7. Road Trip
During this summer, Alex and I decided that it was best to avoid the airport or getting on a plane. Within the US there are plenty of beautiful places you can drive to. Depending on where you live, you might only be a few hours away from a National Park. Many of these locations offer plenty of safe outdoor activities for the whole family. You may decide to rent an RV or a home near the location you plan to visit. For those of us in California, a trip to Lake Tahoe or Big Bear can be a wonderful option. You can rent a cabin and enjoy some hiking as well as water activities on the lake.
Have fun and stay safe out there!
Rosa Chalekian 