Don't Forget to Summer

Last year, we embarked on an adventure from late August, spilling into September. Our great Alaska tour and fishing trip. It was wonderful.

When we arrived home again, I realized I had been so busy planning for the trip, I had forgotten to enjoy the brief Colorado summer. Yes, we had camped at our “ranch” a couple times. We even had a mini family reunion over a long weekend.

But really summering?

My ideal summer includes writing on my deck, surrounded by flowers and vegetable plants in grow-boxes. We have a fantastic view of Pikes Peak. Three huge pine trees muffle some of the sights and sounds of the city.

In late spring this year, we decided to schedule campouts at our “ranch.” That way, we wouldn’t get busy with day-to-day life, and fritter away the long, warm days.

Summer can be a noun, designating the season of long days and warm temperatures. It can also be a verb, as in “summering” at a particular location. I decided I want my summer 2026 to be an active verb.

Colorado Springs offers plenty of summer activities like the Western Street Breakfast. Later this month, the Air Force Academy will give a free concert downtown. If you’re like me, spontaneity doesn’t guarantee attending fun summer activities. Nope, I have to get it on my calendar.

One of my wise granddaughters noted that even at her age, summers could slip by uncelebrated. If you live in certain regions of the USA, that season can be very short.

How do you “summer”? What are the essential activities you need to enjoy to make sure you celebrate the season?