Thoughts for finding summer renewal

Summer evokes many thoughts, feelings, and memories.

Those memories may include longer days, family vacations, more outdoor activities, lemonade, going barefoot, cicadas, and fireflies.

Although for some summer simply means hot weather and high water bills.

Summer may also promote healthier habits in some people. People tend to drink more fluids, get more exercise, slow down the pace somewhat and eat lighter meals during the summer months.

Those suffering from seasonal affective disorder and depression because of shortened days and less sunlight in winter tend to function more effectively and feel less depressed with the longer days of summer.

Businesses that serve summer activities and tourists look forward to an increase in sales.

Summer is a good time to consider the value of leisure time activities and managing stress.

What are you favorite leisure activities?

• Gardening

• Participating in sports

• Observing sports

• Bird watching

• Listening to music

Summers in Waco offer some fabulous opportunities for unique leisure activity.

I recently cruised across Lake Waco and dined at a good restaurant on a floating barge.

On another evening, I attended a free concert on the banks of the Brazos River.

On still another occasion, I attended a wedding reception held at an art museum and was able to enjoy the festivities as well as admire an art collection.

Have you ever bicycled or walked around the McLennan Community College or Baylor University campuses on a summer evening? The flowers, chimes, and students tossing frisbees all lead to a relaxed and pleasant feeling.

The new zoo, which is set to open July 18, is being touted as special and unique.

For outdoor campers, the parks in Central Texas offer plenty of opportunity for outdoor living in a natural environment.

Several beautiful and challenging golf courses are available at a reasonable fee, as are numerous tennis courts, places to wet a hook and city parks for a summer picnic.

Choose a backyard cookout with friends and neighbors, listen to the birds chirping in the early morning hours, observe a sunset over the lake, and reflect in the twighlight hours.

Hike on a nature trail in Cameron Park or visit Miss Nellie’s Pretty Place.

Whether you carefully plan each day in the weeks ahead or just let them happen, summer and its many pleasures can provide a psychological uplift.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright © 1993