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10 things to do in August
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Go green, make delicious ice cream, plus more great ways to savour your last summer days of the year.
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By Natalie Bahadur
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Hate to say it, but here goes: summer is almost over. But don't let that dampen your spirits! Instead, let August motivate you to squeeze in the most summer fun you can. Need a jumpstart? Here are 10 ways to make the most of the month.
1. Get happy with gladioli
August's flower is the gladiolus. Fill your home with this fragrant flower which boasts a wide assortment of colours and markings -- from pink and red to light purple with white contrasting markings. These brightly coloured blooms are sure to add some happy to your home.
2. Do something fearless
End the summer with a bang -- and memories of an experience you'll never forget. Think of something that will thrill and delight you, something you've wanted to do but never plucked up the courage to actually get around to doing. Whether it's getting on a rollercoaster or stepping onto an airplane and traveling solo for a week, think of one thing you can do that will prove that: you can do it!
3. Get a mini-makeover
Fall's a-comin', whether you're ready or not. Step into the season by putting your best foot forward and rejuvenate yourself both inside and out. A new haircut and some practical but stylish new fall clothes will help ease the transition to the cooler months ahead. To focus on your inner self, consider yoga or meditation to help ease your mind and soothe your spirit.
4. Be a quitter
What's your worst habit? Overeating? Smoking? Not getting enough exercise? Whatever your personal vice, make a promise to yourself to conquer it once and for all. Quit the bad habits and start fresh. Not sure where to start? Do some online research for tips and tricks to help you overcome your struggle and if necessary, look for support groups that can help you to keep your spirits up.
5. Decorate with green
August's birthstone is the peridot, a beautiful green that's inviting and invigorating. Bring this colour into your home this month, whether in the form of pretty houseplants or decorative accents like candles and throw cushions.
6. Get out of town!
As summer draws to a close, take advantage of the last of the good weather to take a trip. If hopping on a plane isn't in your budget, consider a road trip. If you live anywhere near the extensive U.S. border, why not take a trip to visit our neighbours to the south? Portland, Maine is a 5-1/2 hour drive from Fredericton, while Seattle, Washington is a mere 2-1/2 hour drive from Vancouver. If you'd rather travel to a domestic destination, check out our guide to Canada's travel hot spots.
7. Go green
OK, so reduce, reuse, recycle is a mantra to most of us. We recycle paper, plastics and glass and try to reduce the amount of waste we produce. But have you taken your environmental awareness to the next level? If you haven't, now's the time to do the planet a favour. Replace your regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, adjust the thermostat (even one degree makes a difference) and consider installing low-flow showerheads and faucets in the kitchen and bathroom.
8. Get your vitamin D
Recent research indicates that vitamin D could be the secret to battling many diseases, particularly cancer. A four-year medical study, which involved about 1,200 women, found that those who were regularly taking the vitamin had about 60 per cent fewer cancer incidences, than those who didn't take the vitamin. Consult your doctor to find out if you should get more vitamin D.
9. Make homemade ice cream
Before the cool weather hits us, enjoy the last hot days of summer with a favourite treat -- ice cream. But don't just visit your local grocery store to pick up a tub of your fave flave. Do it up right and make some homemade ice cream. Don't know how? Click here to find out everything you need to know about making this sweet summer treat at home.
10. Plant perennials
August is the time of year to plant perennials like foxgloves, African daisies, chrysanthemums and lavender. While these beautiful flowers won't bloom until spring and summer, it's important to plant them now so that they can establish strong roots.
Summer's not over yet and while it may feel like you're freefalling into fall, try to slow down and enjoy the rest of our glorious Canadian summer. It may be short but it sure is good.
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