My Summer Resolutions

Most people make New Year’s Eve resolutions, but I’ve started making summer resolutions.

Mary Schmich, of the Chicago Tribune, wrote an article entitled, “Making the Most of Summer Requires Resolution.” I have found the older I get, the more I look forward to summer.

It’s probably our Chicago winters and the fact that I walk to and from work every day that makes me long for consistent sunshine, warm breezes and color. Lots and lots of color!

I stopped driving to work almost two years ago. I put in for a transfer close to my house and got it. That daily walking commute fueled my love of being outside even more. On my days off, I still walk or ride my bike, just for the pleasure of it.

I seek out neighborhoods other than my own. Sometimes I take the CTA bus (or train) to my destination. One particular morning, I took the bus to a nearby neighborhood. As I got off, I realized my whole backside was soaking wet! Eeeeuuuwww! I had a jacket with me, so I wrapped it around my waist, got back on the bus and went home to change. In all the years I’ve lived in this city and traveled public transportation, this had never happened to me!

Here are my resolutions for this summer.

. If possible, I’m going to do everything outside. If I’m going to read, I'll sit in our backyard or grab my book and head for the park or boulevard.

. If I go to a restaurant, I’ll seek out the ones with outdoor seating. One of my favorites is the Waterfront Cafe. It has an exquisite view of Lake Michigan and the food is good, too!

. Being outside provides a great atmosphere for prayer. As I walk (or ride my bike), I have conversations with God. My train of prayer is a mix of fervent requests, random thoughts and gratitude.

. Outdoor concerts are a must on my list. This year I will be at Ravinia twice! Once for Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons and for Tony Bennett.

. My husband and I have attended the Festa Italiana before and throughout our marriage. This year I’m planning to attend some others that I seem to miss.

Do you make resolutions for the summer? If you do what are they? I’d like to add them to my list!

Enjoy your summer!