August Celebrations

August begins tomorrow. What do you celebrate in August? Here are some ideas:

Watermelon. Locally grown watermelons are ripe in many areas. Check out your farmers market. I’ve always thought that the large and long ones with black seeds had the best flavor but they’re hard to find any more. August is the month to enjoy watermelon in whatever form you choose to buy it.

End of Summer Vacation. August is the time that many people take vacations before the busy fall activities (school and increased work schedules) start. Even if you don’t take off a whole week - plan a mini-vacation/day trip to someplace that helps you glory in the warmth of summer - usually someplace with water like a beach, a lake, a river.

Start of the School Year. Yes - the start of the school is in August for some people and the reason I have it on the celebration list is that some actually do like the beginning of the school year…and the new clothes/supplies that go with it.

Two full moons. This is special to this particular August. It turns out there are two full moons: on the 2nd and 31st of this August. Take your binoculars out if the night is clear and enjoy the summer night. 

May Celebrations

May begins tomorrow. What is there to celebrate? Here are some ideas.

Spring. Yes - spring is already well along in most parts of the US - particularly this year. It is still worth celebrating. Spring Festivals or May Day celebrations are held in many areas of the country. Take advantage of a pretty day and spend some hours enjoying the new greenery outdoors.

Memorial Day. Toward the end of the month - there is the three day Memorial Day weekend that officially kicks off the ‘summer’ with the opening of swimming pools. Of course - the holiday also has a serious side too: honoring all those that fought and died serving in the US Armed Forces.

End of School Year. Anyone still in school has the end of the school year to celebrate. College students my end their spring semester by mid-May and most K-12 school systems are ending at the end of the month or in early June (so the end it well within sight in May). Whether or now it is a ‘graduation’ year….consider a “school’s out” celebration.

Farmers Markets Opening. Look around for your local farmers’ market. Generally they open in May. There may be early crops - like strawberries - at your local ‘pick your own’ farm. I know the sign near me says the strawberries are going to be early this year (mid-May versus end of May). Hurray for Strawberries!