Summer manifesto

Well, friends... it's official! I am on summer vacation. Today is my first day off {not counting the long weekend} and it's a pretty fabulous feeling. I hung out in my nightie and flip-flops all morning yesterday, even when I went out to water the garden. After all the madness of the past few months, I fully intend to make the most of July and August, and soak up every second. And so, in keeping with that theme {and because I was inspired by Mary of The Yellow Door Paperie}, I've decided to write a Summer Manifesto. Here's how it's shaping up so far:

• Keep calm and carry on, for real. I say it all the time, but I act on those words far too seldom, and end up getting all worked up about goodness knows what. This summer, I am not going to let stuff bug me. I've got far more important things to do! {read on...}
• Picnic. A lot. The boys love to go on a picnic, and so do I. I think we'll try to get outside to eat at least once a week. We'll try new foods and new locations each time.
• Write letters. Long ones. {Canada Post was on strike for most of June, so I've gotten out of the habit of writing. Time to get back into it.}
• Use the herbs and greens from our garden. Eat them in salads every day. Make my own salad dressing, and buy a baguette to go with them once in a while. Yum!
• Practice French with Dylan {and Sawyer, who's just as keen}. Sing French songs, read French books, label things around the house {good idea, Brandi!}
• Make lemonade. And iced tea. Drink them in tall glasses with paper umbrellas.
• Limit TV and computer time. Spend as much time outdoors as we can. Ride bikes, go for long walks, lay down in the tall grass, pick flowers for the kitchen table.
• Introduce the boys to more of my favourite books. This summer I'd really like to read Charlotte's Web to them.
• Get back into running. It feels good.
• Invite people over. Playdates for the kids, dinner and drinks for the adults. 
• Hang out with my husband. Laugh together.
• Take deep breaths. Think before I speak. Have more patience with people, especially my kids.
• Get more sleep. Nap when I feel the need.
• Don't just say I'm going to do things. Actually do things. Now... where's my picnic basket? 

How about you? Do you have a summer manifesto?

image via gingerlilytea