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Make the most of summer’s end with our 6 inspiring ideas! From BBQs to movie nights, enjoy every sunny moment before autumn arrives. 🌞🍿
Summer might be winding down, but there is still plenty of time before autumn arrives. Whether you gather everyone you know for a potluck barbecue or discover new ways to use your summer herbs, these six ideas will help you make the most of the time you have left of the season.
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1. Finish Home Improvement Projects
The final weeks of summer are ideal for completing home improvement projects. For example, declutter rooms, pressure wash the exterior, mow the lawn and apply a fresh coat of paint.
You might also replace your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system with a newer model to prepare your home for winter. New HVAC systems cut energy consumption by 50% and save you 10%-30% on utility bills.
Homeowners are eligible for federal tax credits when making residential energy efficiency improvements. From 2023 to 2032, you could receive a 30% tax credit on an HVAC system, insulation and windows, among other purchases.
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2. Have an Outdoor Movie Night
As summer’s end approaches, transform your backyard into a cinematic experience. Set up a projector, sound system and screen — a white sheet will suffice if necessary.
Arrange a comfortable seating area with outdoor furniture, blankets, pillows and bean bag chairs. String lights can also create the perfect ambience without shining too brightly. Of course, what’s a movie night without popcorn and beverages? You might even choose a snack theme based on the film you’re watching.
Consider the audience when selecting the perfect movie. Comedies, classics and family-friendly flicks are always great options for these get-togethers.
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3. Try a Water Sport
It’s not cold yet, so soak up as much warm weather as possible before summer turns to fall. Now is the best time to participate in watersports — a light swim can help you burn 200 calories in 30 minutes without straining your body. You can even set up a net and play pool volleyball.
Although not necessarily for at home, other watersports could include kayaking, waterskiing and paddleboarding. With some practice, paddleboarding can be a relaxing experience once you find your balance, while kayaking allows you to explore unique coves and waterways.00
Tubing and whitewater rafting are additional water activities you can enjoy with a group — a fun adventure for thrill seekers.
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4. Dehydrate Herbs
By the end of the summer, your garden is likely flourishing with stunning flowers, abundant produce and fresh herbs. The question is, what do you do with it all? You can use as many fruits and vegetables as you want while cooking or hand out excess to people you know. As for the herbs, why not dehydrate them?
You can use dehydrated herbs in recipes or crafts, like making soaps and candles. Some ways to dehydrate herbs include:
- Drying them in the oven for three to four hours at 180 F
- Using a dehydrator set at 95-110 F
- Microwaving them in batches at 1,000 watts or higher for two to three minutes, followed by 30-second increments
Using herbs in cooking is also good for your health. For example, oregano changes how the body stores fat, promoting weight loss. Many also contain crucial antioxidants to help prevent disease and inflammation.
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5. Host a Backyard Barbecue
Approximately 47% of people barbecue on Labor Day, making it the second most popular day for grilling. What better way to celebrate the upcoming change of seasons than with a final hurrah at the grill?
Host a backyard barbecue for your friends. Better yet, make it a potluck, with people contributing their favorite side dishes, drinks and desserts.
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6. Light a Bonfire
As summer winds down, evening temperatures will soon get cooler. A backyard bonfire is the perfect end-of-summer gathering to unwind and connect with loved ones.
As long as your town regulations or homeowners association allows it, you can build a bonfire away from your house in a clear, leveled part of your lawn. You can also purchase a small standing fire pit for the patio.
Remember to include the essentials, including a fire extinguisher for emergencies, Adirondack chairs, blankets and ingredients for s’mores.
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Savor the Last Days of Summer
Summer’s end brings forth a new season to get excited about. However, the warmer days aren’t over yet. Enjoy what’s left, create happy memories and continue doing all your favorite summertime activities before the arrival of fall.
Cora’s passion is to inspire others to live a happy, healthful, and mindful life through her words on Revivalist – wholeheartedly convincing them that everyday moments are worth celebrating. Cora has spent 5+ years writing for numerous lifestyle sites – hence her sincere love for both life and the beauty of style in all things. Keep up with Cora on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.
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