End of Summer Bucket List

There are two big events happening for the ‘shell this week! Two more nuts are hitting the quarter century mark, myself included. For me, my Birthday has always been synonymous with the end of summer. It always falls about a week prior to the start of school. While I won’t be returning to school this year (which still feels weird to me), I always find myself attempting to pull up my socks in September and get back on “track” after a summer filled with carefree days and nights soaking up the sun.

This summer has been a tad different than those of my past. Between working 2 jobs, 7 days a week, and saving all of my pennies to buy my first home, I haven’t accomplished everything that I normally LOVE to do during summertime. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve definitely had my fun, but I have a few last minute items to check off my 2013 summer bucket list. This post is entirely self-indulgent, but, I’m hoping that despite it’s content being specific to my tastes, you’ll still be able to jump on board and feel inspired to make  the most of what’s left of our fleeting summer!

1. Spend a whole day reading outside

I’ve been able to read a decent number of books this summer, but I’m often taking in pages while on my lunch break or in between shifts…and for the most part, I’ve been reading indoors. While it’s lovely to read while having a bubble bath (cliché, I know) I’m still hoping to take in some rays and dig in to a good book before I need a parka to go outside. Whether I make it to the beach to lay out or just post-up in my backyard, I’m going to make it happen. (For good book suggestions and reviews, you can check out my book club’s fabulous blog here).

A glimpse into what I’ve read this summer (including The Dinner, which I’m currently reading)

2. Get back out on the water

As a fish by nature, it’s a shame that I’ve only made it out on the lake once (!!) this summer. There’s really nothing better than being on a boat or a dock, with tunes blaring and great company. I’m hoping to carve off another afternoon and let my brother whip me around on his boat before it’s too cold to do so.

Taking my nephews tubing, priceless.


3. Go to Calypso

Speaking of water-adventures, I have yet to make it to one of my favourite summer places…Calypso Water Park. Just east of Ottawa, I’ve been a huge fan of this water-fun park since it opened a few summers back. As a previous owner of a season pass, it’s so sad that I haven’t had the chance to get out there yet this summer. Between the lazy river, the 6 person raft rides and the tiki bar, it’s something I miss dearly.

 

4. Attend happy hour on a patio

Nothing beats patio-weather and patio-drinks. Nothing. But, life is hectic and it seems like my weeknights have been overly packed with plans lately…and none of them have featured happy hour. That being said, I’d like to schedule an afternoon to soak up some rays and enjoy some refreshing bevvies at one of my favourite spots around the city. Who’s in?

Notice how I’m not in this picture with the other two (beautiful) Ottawa nuts? This needs to be fixed.

5. Take in (at least) one more outdoor concert

I only made it to Bluesfest once this summer. I worked the entire August long weekend and was writhing with jealousy over those who made it to nearby Osheaga, Veld and OVO Fests. I certainly didn’t have the time or money to make it to Coachella or Bonnaroo. While I made it to 3 stadium shows (including the Legends of the Summer Tour) over the last 4 months, I didn’t get to take in enough live, outdoor music. I’m pumped for Ottawa’s upcoming Folk Festival running from September 4-8. Neil Young, Vampire Weekend, Kendrick Lamar, The Sheepdogs, The Avett Brothers and  The Wailers round out the list of headlining artists – along with a ton of awesome, smaller acts. I can’t wait to take in the tunes; beer in hand, swaying with my friends as the sun sets and the stars come out. There’s nothing more “summer” than that.

Loving life at Folk Fest 2012

What’s on your end of summer bucket list?

Leave a Reply