Today I took my girls swimming for the FIRST time this summer.

Yes, you read that correctly. Here it is, August, and I’m just now getting my girls, and their super-cute swimsuits, into a pool.

Believe me; I am experiencing serious mom-guilt over this. At the beginning of June I promised myself that I would give my girls plenty of opportunities to swim this summer, but somehow we made it to August without the wrinkly toes and tan lines that serve as a badge of honor on hot summer days.

It is no secret that the end of summer is upon us. The Back-to-School signs are everywhere and, here in Michigan, we can already feel a tinge of autumn’s impatient chill.

Inspired by today’s visit to the pool I’ve been making a list in my mind. It’s a list of all the things I’d like to do before the end of summer.

I can’t think of a better way to use this week’s post than to share my list with you. It is my hope that this list of ideas will inspire you to hunt for beauty, seize, not just the day, but the moments that make the days worthwhile, and open your eyes to the fleeting glory of summer.

No matter what, take it from me, avoid the guilt and Get. In. The. Pool.

21 Things to Do Before the End of Summer

1. Catch fireflies and put them in a jar (but let them go before bedtime)
2. Bite into a wedge of juicy watermelon, let it trickle down your chin and see how far you can spit the seeds
3. Take a child to a playground and take a turn on the swings
4. Run through a sprinkler (Who cares what your neighbors think?)
5. Treat yourself to an ice cream cone and savor each lick, right to the last, sweet drop
6. Let your toes get wrinkled in a lake or a pool
7. Take a walk in the morning and linger in the cool of the day
8. Take a walk in the evening and linger in the glow of twilight
9. Roast hot dogs and smore’s over a campfire
10. Read a book in a hammock or porch swing
11. Invite a friend (or ten) over for a cookout, use paper plates and revel in the joy of food and friendship
12. Read or re-read a book or magazine for pure delight
13. Make a list of all the things you wanted to do this summer. Pick one or two things and do them; release yourself from the rest. (Remember, next summer will come with fresh grace.)
14. Pack a blanket and snacks and enjoy a picnic with your kiddos, your family or friends
15. Savor the taste of corn-on-the-cob, vine ripened tomatoes, and fresh blueberries
16. Visit at least one garage sale, buy one thing practical, one thing beautiful, one thing just for fun
17. Pick a bouquet of Queen Anne’s Lace (it’s everywhere right now) and place it in your windowsill
18. Bring the makings for root beer floats to your next play date or Bible study
19. Grab your camera and spend a day or an afternoon capturing God-glory
20. Spend time thanking God for all the gifts of summer
21. Go shopping for school supplies, unpack your favorite jacket, and say, “Hello,” to fall

Why not make your own list? I’d love to see your ideas for savoring the last days of summer. Share your thoughts below…let’s keep the list going…