Summer 2022 Bucket List: Family Edition

Happy First Day of Summer! I’m so excited for the next 90+ days of sunshine and fun. Summer has always been one of my favorite seasons. Not just because my birthday is in August, but more so because Summer just has such a leisurely and enjoyable vibe in general. It is the season after all where people vacation the most and even school is on break. I was in the first trimester of my pregnancy with the twins last Summer, and I was so sick and in the bed a lot of the time. Needless to say, I intend to be outside this year! I’ll be doing a lot with my family, and here’s a round up of some things on my summer bucket list.

 
 

1 — Fun Fridays

I’m off of work every Friday, so it will be Fun Friday all summer long. On Fridays, we’ll enjoy pizza or something yummy and a fun activity, primarily outside of the house. There’s so many places to go and things to do in our area, so we’re going to explore. At the end of the summer, I want the kids and I to be able to look back and say, “wow, that was a really fun summer”.

2 — Visit an amusement park

Our family loves amusement parks. We went to Busch Gardens and Water Country USA last year for my son’s 10th birthday, and we had a great time! We’re thinking of Kings Dominion and perhaps 1 more amusement park this year.

3 — Go to the pool (and swim lessons for the kids)

Warm weather and water just go together. The kids really need to learn how to swim, too (babies included), so lessons and pool days are in order.

4 — Take some fun classes

The kids are enjoying a break from school, but we’ll still get some classes in the mix…fun ones of course. They love to cook, so we’ll do some more cooking classes virtually with Chef Leen and maybe some in-person at Sur La Table. For the babies, I’m thinking of putting them in My Gym or something similar because they love moving around. I’m also thinking maybe me and hubby can do a candle making class and/or mixology class, because we love candles and making a summer cocktail would be fun. Lastly, we have to do horseback riding this year for my daughter because I promised last year, but was too pregnant and sick to go.

5 — Go on a trip as a family

Morning/all day sickness had me down last year, so we never got around to a family trip. Well, we are definitely enjoying a change of scenery together this year. Mexico is the plan and maybe a road trip, too.

6 — Baecation with hubby

Of course, an adults only vacation is a must! My husband and I are long overdue for our baecation, so I’m excited to fly out to a beautiful destination, just the two of us.

7 — Scooter/Bike Ride Downtown

The kids have been begging to ride those scooters in DC, so we’re going to surprise them one day and do it. It’s honestly the little things that make kids so happy, and my husband and I will probably enjoy this, too.

8 — Day/Week Camps and Play Dates

We aren’t doing a full summer camp, but I plan to have the kids enjoy some day camps and week-long camps throughout the summer, so that they can enjoy some extra fun, learn something and make new friends. I also want to do some play dates with the twins, so we can meet up with other moms and babies.

9 — Visit a winery/vineyard

If I can make it to Napa that would be great, but if not, I’m definitely planning to check out some of the local wineries in the DMV. I especially want to visit some I haven’t been to, such as Stone Tower. I’m thinking this would be a great day date for me and hubby. I would also love to visit some wineries with friends.

10 — Safeguard my me time

Last but not least, this summer is for me! I’m excited to create some fun memories with my family, and I’m equally excited to pour into my cup this summer. From brunches, to spa days, to daily walks, reading books, drinking my water and minding my business, and more, I plan to honor my me time this summer. When I take care of me, I’m better able to take care of my family and to maintain my identity outside of my roles and titles.


I hope this list helps you come up with some fun ways to spend your summer. Remember, the simple activities matter just as much as the bigger ones, so enjoy both this Summer. Share one thing on your bucket list in the comments. Be sure to follow me on Instagram @shalycetyson, if you aren’t already, as I’ll be sharing some of my summer adventures there.

Have a glowing day!