Prepping for Summer

Summer doesn’t just sneak up while I’m planting my tomato plants. It blazes in with long days, hot nights, and a whirlwind of plans, projects, and maybe a few popsicles. Although I’m still enjoying Spring, the practical planner in me is already thinking about how to handle the unique demands of summer. Whether you’re juggling kids on school break, trying to keep your home cool and comfy, planning a trip or two (or many), or managing a business during peak season (or a summer lull), a little prep can go a long way.

So before the season kicks into high gear, let’s get everything ready: your home, your family, and your business.

 How to Prepare for Summer 1. Getting Your Home Ready for Summer

Your home should be your cool, welcoming retreat in the heat of summer. Here’s how to prepare it—functionally and aesthetically—for the warmer months ahead.

 Start with comfort and maintenance:Service your air conditioning before it breaks during the hottest week of the year. Clean or replace filters, and test the system to ensure it’s running efficiently.Switch out seasonal bedding and curtains. Lightweight cottons and linens are more breathable than heavy winter fabrics. Lighter-colored window treatments can reflect heat and keep rooms cooler.Check windows and doors for leaks that could let in hot air and let out cold air (and run up your electric bill).Power wash patios, porches, and siding to clear away winter grime.Inspect outdoor furniture for damage, and clean cushions or buy new covers.Clean and inspect the grill. It’s time to shine as queen (or king) of the BBQ!Stock up on pest control supplies. Ant traps, Japanese beetle bags, citronella candles, mosquito zappers. It’s bug season, after all. Add some seasonal flair:Swap out throw pillows, doormats, and candles for more summery styles. Think beachy blues, tropical prints, or bold citrus colors.Create a “summer survival basket” by the front door with sunscreen, bug spray, reusable water bottles, and sunglasses. Start a small herb garden  or grow veggies in containers near your porch or kitchen window. Fresh basil makes everything taste like summer.Build a summer TBR pile for the entire family. Collect all the summer-y books that you and your family want to read this summer and keep them in a convenient place so you’ll reach for a book before reaching for your phone. 2. Preparing Your Family for Summer Break

Whether your summer involves kids home from school, vacations, or just trying to slow down and enjoy longer evenings, getting ahead of the chaos will help you make the most of it.

 Get logistics out of the way early:Schedule physicals and dentist appointments before everyone else is trying to do the same. Many colleges, camps, and sports programs require updated medical forms and maybe even some updated vaccines. And you may want to check on your own tetanus shot to make sure it’s up-to-date.Create a master summer calendar. Use a shared app or a big wall calendar to track camps, trips, events, and babysitter coverage. Restock your first-aid kits  (for both home and car) with bandages, allergy meds, after-sun cream, and tweezers (you’ll thank yourself after the first bee sting). Prep the car for summer travel. Driving during there summer has its own special requirements. I’ve linked to a post to help you prep the car before you leave the house. Make room for fun and memories:Build a summer bucket list as a family. Include silly, simple ideas like “eat dinner on a blanket in the backyard” or “make homemade popsicles.”Create a boredom box filled with puzzles, coloring books, scavenger hunt cards, and small surprises. Pull it out when kids say the dreaded “I’m bored.”Sign up for your local library’s summer reading program. Many offer prizes, themed events, and community connections.Designate a summer chores chart. This keeps kids involved and adds structure to lazy days.Plan a day to hike in a local or national park.Go fishing! If you live near a lake, stream, river, or ocean, grab a pole and see what you can catch. Just remember to take a photo so your family believes you.Rent an inflatable movie screen and have family movie night outside. 3. Getting Your Business Ready for the Season

Whether your business heats up or cools down during the summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect, refresh, and refocus.

 Operational check-in:Review your mid-year goals. Where are you on revenue, projects, client load, or engagement? Summer is an ideal time to pivot or push forward.Adjust summer hours or staffing if needed. If your clients or team take extended time off, plan accordingly.Update your website and social media. Make sure summer promotions, operating hours, and contact info are current.Tidy up your workspace. Clutter tends to accumulate during busy months. Clear it now for a fresh mental reset. Add summer energy:Plan a small summer promotion: a seasonal product, discount, or giveaway can increase visibility and engagement.Host a team event. A casual BBQ, outdoor coffee meeting, or bring-your-pet-to-work day lightens the mood.Offer seasonal perks like iced coffee in the office, casual Fridays, or summer Fridays off. Bonus Tips to Level-Up Your Summer PrepCreate a “go bag” in your car with towels, bathing suits, flip-flops, water, and snacks so you’re ready for impromptu pool days or road trips.Make a summer playlist for everything from cleaning the house to beach days.Stock the freezer with popsicles, ice packs, and quick dinner options for those too-hot-to-cook nights.Consider a digital detox weekend to reset your mind and help your family reconnect. Final Thoughts

Summer is more than just a season. Summer requires a shift in mindset. It’s longer days, slower mornings, and space to breathe a little deeper. By getting ahead with thoughtful prep, you set the stage to enjoy it all… without the stress.

So dust off your flip-flops, grab a lemonade, and get ready. You’ve got this.

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