Hello summer graphic with watermelonDoes it feel like June is slipping away? Does it feel like you have a lot left to do to celebrate the season?

4th of July is coming up quick (just a week away!) and this holiday often feels like the midpoint of summer. There’s still lots of sunny days ahead, though, which means lots of time to enjoy the fun, carefree days of the season. Afterall, that’s one of the best things about summertime: the lack of a schedule, the longer days, the warm nights, the desire to go and do and be.

Sometimes, the favorite memories of summer are the simple things, too, like getting an ice cream cone with the team after a baseball game or setting up a tent in the backyard and having a sleepover with the kids in the neighborhood. 

I remember days spent poolside, laughing and swimming with friends for hours on end. We’d share French fries or buy Jolly Ranchers candy and we thought it was the best day ever. Looking back fondly on these memories, I know they were really good, simple days. 

There are a lot of fun, simple things you can do today with your family that don’t require a lot of time or money but will create an opportunity to make meaningful memories with your kids.  

Need some inspiration on what to do? Here are a few ideas for a family summer bucket list. 

  • Buy ice cream from the ice cream truck.
  • Run through the sprinkler.
  • Sleep under the stars.
  • Ride a roller coaster.
  • Play a round of mini golf.
  • Go to a Dayton Dragons baseball game. 
  • Watch a movie at the drive-in. 
  • Go swimming in a pool, lake, ocean – or maybe all three!
  • Watch fireworks.
  • Go out for a breakfast treat and get donuts from Ashley’s in your pjs. 
  • Hit up a local farmer’s market for some delicious seasonal fruits and veggies. 
  • Watch the sunrise.
  • Watch the sunset.
  • Roast marshmallows over a bonfire.
  • Host a backyard BBQ.
  • Have a family slumber party in your living room. 
  • Take a one tank road trip. 
  • Catch lightning bugs.
  • Read a book in the backyard.
  • Take a nap in a hammock. 
  • Jump in puddles after a rainstorm.
  • Eat popsicles with the neighbors. 
  • Have a picnic lunch. 
  • Go on a bike ride.
  • Try a new recipe. 
  • Eat ice cream for dinner. 
  • Have a water balloon fight. 
  • Go to the zoo. 
  • Visit a family member in another city or state. 

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Of course, we’d love to hear what you would add to your own list.  

Ashley’s is always here to help you celebrate any season, whether that means enjoying our seasonal iced sugar cookies or being brave enough to come pick out your favorite donut in your pajamas. We’re looking forward to seeing you and hearing about all of the happenings during this sweet summertime season.