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DANIELLE POPE: The season for savouring

Summer. It’s a time of year that, as a child, I looked forward to with more anticipation than I even held for Santa, the Easter Bunny or...
POPE Danielle 2

Summer.

It’s a time of year that, as a child, I looked forward to with more anticipation than I even held for Santa, the Easter Bunny, or my birthday — well, maybe it didn’t hurt that my birthday fell within the season. But I coveted the long days, hot sun, fresh-cut grass and the constant possibility that our neighbourhood games of capture the flag would stretch on until after dark.

Little changed in school, or even through university, when summer breaks would give the illusion of freedom, and the heat would melt away the tiresome scars of essays, tests and the stress of the upcoming semester. Now, I still feel that constant pull outside as the calendar flips over May, June, July, August, somehow with ever-increasing speed.

While we’ve already been lucky enough to see a summer preview of weather on the Island, this week in Monday we’ve rounded up some of the most adventurous events, awe-inspiring performances and must-see places you’ll want to hit this season to make the most of the months of sun. From what to bring while camping at music festivals to the best beaches and even out of town events you’ll want to plan for, we’ve categorized, itemized and scrolled through some of the wonders our home has to offer this year.

For those aiming to enjoy summer from a cubical, however, never fear. When you’re not dashing out on weekends to make the most of the sun, there are a few things you can do to bring that feeling of summer time bliss into the office with you. No, one of the options isn’t to set up a tanning bed in the company bathroom, but you’re lucky: if you live on this Island, chances are you have sandy — well, rocky — beaches close enough to relax on during your lunch break. Here are a few things you can do:

Bike or walk to work. That little time before and after can help to fill your a need for outdoor time.

Actually use your lunch break. Seriously. Whether it’s 15 minutes or one hour, stroll out to your nearest park, drive over to the water or bask on your tailgate. For company lunches, pick restaurants with a patio.

Wear colorful clothing. It might not replace the vibrant greens, blues and yellows of these luscious months, but colour can still improve your mood.

Drink flavoured water. Nothing says summer like mint, or cucumber, sliced lemons, or sliced oranges in your water bottle. Pop the fun in a mason jar, close your eyes while drinking and you’ll swear you’re on a picnic.

Brighten someone’s day. Nothing adds some “sun” to an office more than going out of your way to leave a nice note, bake the crew some cookies, or pick up an unexpected task.

Be thankful. It’s no fun to be inside on a great day, but if you are, that means you have a job, which is something worth celebrating — maybe even with a post-work margarita. M