{Monthly Musings // How We Summer}

I’m joining in on the Monthly Musings link-up today, and this month’s theme is all about how we summer! Summer is one of those seasons that feels like a deep exhale after a long stretch. There’s a bit more margin, a bit more sun, and, if we’re lucky, a bit more time together. From travel and books to food and family, here’s a look at how we spent Summer 2025...

1.) Favorite thing about Summer 2025?

Oh, where do I even begin? This summer has been packed with so many beautiful memories, and it’s hard to pick just one favorite. Our trip to Colorado was such a highlight...watching Mason skate on the Air Force Academy ice was a moment I’ll never forget. We spent sweet time with dear friends and soaked in that mountain air.

Then there was our 4th of July weekend at the lake… family, fireworks, long summer nights, and laughter echoing across the water. And of course, our most recent trip to Freeport, Texas (here and here)...a few blissful days of true rest. No schedules, no games, no distractions… just uninterrupted time as a family. It was soul-filling.

And honestly, one of the biggest blessings was just being here for it all. I thought I’d be spending this summer recovering from brain surgery. But God had other plans, and I am so incredibly grateful for that. Thank you, Jesus!

2.) Favorite thing you ate this summer?

This is a bit of a tricky one. I started a new migraine preventative medication back in May, and one of the side effects has been a major drop in appetite. I find myself eating less and rarely finishing a full plate. That said, I think my favorite meal would have to be the one we had “On the River” in Freeport...good food and sweet company. Sometimes it’s less about what you eat and more about the moment, and that was definitely one of those times.

3.) Did you see any summer movies?

Not really! We haven’t made it to the theater in forever. Life has just felt too full (in the best way). The boys did watch Happy Gilmore 2 over the weekend, though I was reading a book during most of it. So technically, I was there… just not paying attention. Ha!

4.) What books did you read this summer?

Now this is my kind of question! I’ve been devouring books this season (finally - I had to take a break from reading Feb-May due to my health journey and head issues), and here’s what I made my way through:

• Just for Summer – Abby Jimenez

• Till Summer Do Us Part – Meghan Quinn

• The Fall Risk – Abby Jimenez

• Little Secrets – Jennifer Hillier

• The One with the Kiss Cam – Cindy Steel

• This Little Promise – Nora Blake

• It Happened One Summer – Tessa Bailey

• Crazy Love – Francis Chan

• Beach Read – Emily Henry

• Hook, Line, and Sinker – Tessa Bailey

• Girls of Summer – Nancy Thayer

• Nantucket Nights – Elin Hilderbrand

A mix of lighthearted beach reads, thrillers, and a little bit of faith to round it out!

5.) Ready for fall or holding onto summer?

I feel like I’m living in the in-between right now. Still soaking in every ounce of this beautiful summer...but also starting to long for all things autumn.

Nate mentioned OU football over the weekend and my heart skipped a beat thinking of cozy mornings, pumpkins on the porch, crockpot dinners, college football, NHL hockey, and that magical crispness in the air that only fall brings. So I’m straddling the seasons right now... loving the now, but eagerly awaiting what’s next.

6.) What’s different about your summer schedule than the rest of the year?

Not a whole lot, honestly! Since we homeschool, our daily rhythm tends to stay pretty consistent year-round. We don’t have the hectic pace that traditional school can bring, and I’m so thankful for that freedom. But summer definitely brings more trips, more spontaneous fun, and longer evenings outside—and that always feels special.

7.) How do you take a break/relax in the summer?

For us, it’s all about getting away. Whether it’s a big trip or a quick weekend road trip, stepping away from the normal day-to-day is how we find rest. Unplugging, soaking up new scenery, and just being together is the best kind of reset.

8.) Any trips still on the calendar for the rest of summer?

As of now, we’re staying home the rest of the summer! But we are planning a trip to Tennessee for Thanksgiving and I’m already counting down the days. I cannot wait to hug my Tennessee family and catch up with loved ones I haven’t seen in a long while.

9.) Any summer concerts this year?

Just one...and it happens every Sunday morning.  Our church worship band is so talented that it truly feels like a mini concert. Their passion and joy fill the room, and it always sets my heart right for the week ahead.

10.) When does summer end in your world?

For us, summer ends after Labor Day. Since we don’t begin our homeschool year until then, we squeeze every last drop out of the season. We’ll hold on to slow mornings, late sunsets, and that wide-open summer feeling for as long as we can.

This summer has been one for the books. From answered prayers to sandy toes, from quiet mornings to memory-making trips… I’m just grateful. And now, with fall waiting just around the corner, I’m looking forward to what the next season will bring...with a heart full of summer joy to carry me into it.