Summer has a Rhythm All its Own
Can you hear them?
The lawnmowers are humming, and the unmistakable smell of freshly cut grass drifts through the neighborhood. For me, summer isn't just a season—it's a collection of sights, sounds, and memories that seem to slow life down just enough to notice them.
I have always loved summer. I love the warmth, the longer days, and the simple routines that come with this time of year.
As many of you know, I'm an early riser. During the summer, it seems I wake up even earlier. Before 6:30 each morning, I've already watched the sunrise, spent time with my devotionals, and taken our dogs for a walk. There is something incredibly peaceful about those first quiet moments before the rest of the world wakes up. The air is cooler, the birds are busy welcoming the day, and everything feels filled with possibility.
Across the street from our home, a youth football camp is in full swing. Around seven each morning, I hear the grounds crew preparing the fields as the lawnmowers begin their work. Soon afterward come the sounds of kids laughing, coaches giving instructions, parents finding their seats, and another summer day begins.
The practices wrap up before noon, which is probably a good thing this year. Here in Arizona, our monsoon season has arrived. By early afternoon, the clouds begin to build over the mountains, the humidity climbs, and before long we hear the rumble of thunder. Some afternoons bring gentle showers while others deliver dramatic thunderstorms that continue well into the evening.
On the days the clouds stay away, another familiar summer scent fills the air—the unmistakable fragrance of sunscreen. Somehow it always reminds me of tropical vacations and piña coladas, even if I'm simply working in the backyard or taking a walk around the neighborhood.
And then, as evening rolls around, another smell takes over the neighborhood—the irresistible aroma of backyard barbecues. You can almost tell what's on the grill as you walk by. Burgers sizzling, steaks cooking over open flames, grilled vegetables, and maybe someone's secret barbecue sauce filling the air. It's amazing how the smell of a barbecue can instantly remind you of family gatherings, laughter on the patio, picnic tables, paper plates, watermelon slices, homemade ice cream, and staying outside until the stars come out.
Summer has a rhythm all its own. Some days invite us to slow down, read a book on the porch, or enjoy an evening conversation with friends. Other days begin with a long list of projects that have us outside early, trying to finish before the afternoon heat settles in.
As much as I love summer, I've also learned that our bodies don't always respond the way they did twenty or thirty years ago.
When we're younger, we can spend hours gardening, hiking, landscaping, or chasing grandchildren around the yard without thinking much about recovery. As the years pass, our bodies ask us to be a little wiser.
Hydration becomes more important. We often need more water than we think—especially if we're drinking coffee, spending time in the sun, or exercising outdoors. Muscles appreciate a few minutes of stretching before jumping into yard work. Taking breaks isn't a sign of weakness; it's a strategy that helps us stay active longer.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that consistency always beats intensity.
You don't have to accomplish everything in one day. Spending thirty or forty-five minutes working outside several mornings each week is often much kinder to your joints, muscles, and energy than trying to do it all in one exhausting afternoon. Your future self will thank you.
Summer also reminds us to play.
Take the walk after dinner. Watch the sunset. Sit outside after one of those afternoon storms and breathe in the fresh air. Visit the farmer's market. Explore a nearby trail you've never walked before. Make memories with your children and grandchildren, or simply enjoy a quiet cup of coffee on the porch before the day begins.
These are the moments that often become our favorite memories.
As I often say on my podcast, Aging Is Direction, growing older isn't about slowing down—it is about becoming more intentional. It's about choosing habits that allow us to continue doing the things we love for years to come.
So wherever this summer finds you—traveling, gardening, relaxing by the pool, cheering on a grandchild at a ballgame, or simply enjoying your own backyard—I hope you'll take time to enjoy every sight, sound, and smell that makes this season so special.
Summer doesn't last forever.
Let's make the most of every beautiful day.
Until next month,
Check out the Podcast Aging is Direction for some more helpful tips!
