Rick Smith/Columnist
It’s July. The middle of the summer. The busiest month for summer vacations. In case you are wondering what to do, here are twelve awesome summer activities to either add to or check off your bucket list.
Prepare a cherry dessert. Have you been to Brookshire’s on Broadway recently? Cherries are at their prime from May to August. Why not make a dessert with cherries? From cherry cobbler to cherries jubilee, indulge in the luscious flavors and vibrant colors that only cherries can bring to your dessert table.
Go camping. While the weather is nice, go on a camping trip. A tent, some sleeping bags, and plenty of snacks is about all that’s needed to return to nature. So, you would rather glamp it up a bit? Check out the accommodation at Paddlewhack on the edge of Big Cypress Bayou.
Visit a lake. Timeless memories are made on the water. Soaking up the sun’s rays. Unpacking a picnic lunch on the shore. Jefferson is located between Caddo Lake and Lake O’ the Pines. Reconnect with nature.
Engage in stargazing. The summer skies are perfect for gazing up at the sky. Look for a dark night – a night with a new moon. Avoid city lights.
Look for fireflies (lightening bugs). Fireflies create a magical glow, lighting up summer nights. Look in open fields, or forest edges. To attract fireflies, add a water feature.
Take your dinner tray outside. It’s a great way to de-escalate after a hair-pulling day. Enjoy your meal, then sit back and do nothing for a few minutes. Oh, and takeout simplifies everything.
Enjoy a campfire. Campfires are associated with storytelling and relaxation. What’s a camping trip without a few scary stories around a campfire? It’s nostalgic medicine for the soul.
Slice a watermelon. Some of the sweetest, juiciest watermelons are grown in Texas. Try a Black Diamond, Crimson Sweet, or Bush Sugar Baby. You’ll thank me!
Pay a visit to a farmer’s market. Not only will you be supporting local fruit and vegetable growers, but you will also be eating the freshest produce available.
Go on a road trip. There are dozens of day trips to take. Get in the car and start driving. Which direction to go? Flip a coin.
Visit a park. Does it get any better than a park with a pool? It’s a budget friendly activity and a great way to get everyone outside. Stock up on snacks. Grab a book. Make a day of it.
Find a cabin or a bed and breakfast to rent. Look no further than Jefferson. If you live in the city, then the perfect weekend getaway may be just taking off to a cabin. Or surround yourself in luxury at one of the many bed and breakfasts. Don’t forget to pack a book or a deck of cards.
Yes, July is one of the hottest months of the year. But if you plan your outdoor activities wisely, you’ll have a cool, safe summer.
Rick Smith is a Jeffersonian and can be reached at theriquemeister@gmail.com.