Fun activities to do this upcoming summer

Here are a few activities to help make this summer the best yet:

• Picnics: Invite your group of friends to a picnic in the park this summer. Snacks are essential, so make sure you bring lots for everyone to enjoy. Of course, there are store-bought snacks like chips and cookies and while we love these, if you want to elevate your picnic experience, consider bringing something a little fancier. Some ideas could include a meat & cheese platter, fruit, pastries, finger sandwiches, cake, etc. Drinks such as sparkling water, juice or lemonade would be great to pair with these. Lastly, make sure you bring a blanket and even flowers if you want to add to the atmosphere.
• Go to a local farmer’s market: Not only do farmer’s markets give all the best summer vibes, but they are also a fantastic place to find fresh fruits and vegetables, unique jewelry, baked goods, flowers and plants, bath and beauty products, and handmade crafts. There are several in the area to explore, including Clarkston Farmers Market, Lewiston Farmers Market, Tuesday Growers Market in Moscow, and Palouse Grown Market in Pullman.
• Nature walks: After being in some kind of lockdown for more than two years, it’s time we all reconnect with nature and explore the outdoors. Not to mention we live in the Pacific Northwest, so it’s kind of a requirement. Some of the best scenic trails in the area include Hells Gate State Park, Headwaters Trail, Fields Spring State Park, Moscow Mountain Majesty and Dworshak State Park.
• Painting: With a little free time on your hands, why not unleash your imagination? You don’t have to be Picasso to get creative and try something new. You can find lots of inspiration on Pinterest or, better yet, out in nature. Look around you for a while and see what catches your eye, then create your own masterpiece from that. If paint isn’t your medium, experiment with other types of art supplies and find what works for you. Remember that it’s all about individuality and self-expression, so just have fun with it.
• Try new recipes: Maybe there’s a recipe you’ve been dying to try, and you just haven’t had the time for it. I encourage you to take this summer break to finally do it. It can be something as simple as a smoothie or mastering the art of something more complex such as sushi. Cooking and baking aren’t for everyone, so you can always call in family members and friends for support. Feel free to add your own flair as well!