Ah, the lazy, hazy days of summer are here.
The beaches are filling with people.
Thoughts of how to entertain the children, as well as the adults, are streaming through our minds.
We could certainly travel the world … if we had just won the large Lotto Max jackpot.
But, let’s think about what we can do that’s not too expensive and that’s right in our own back yard, in Whitewater Region, a neighbouring municipality, or even somewhere within Renfrew County.
There are no shortages of beaches. There’s the Cobden beach and the Little Lakes Beach. The Littles Lake beach has been prettied up, with a nicely painted dry fire hydrant, picnic table and bench under a tree to take refuge from the sun and the large rocks to lounge on while watching our little ones in the water.
There’s plenty of campgrounds to go and pitch a tent. Visit Mussie at Bona Vista Campground or try whitewater rafting while at one of the area rafting companies. Heck, you don’t even have to leave the rafting company, you can lounge on the beach or play a variety of games, such as beach volleyball.
If you like a thrill, why not check out zip lining at Logos Land or the bat caves near Eganville.
Take a drive to a town or village you’ve never been to and walk around. Browse the local stores, check out the parks, maybe even enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner.
You might even take the opportunity to get to know your neighbours better. Hold a block party in someone’s yard. Make it potluck, so you get a variety of foods. You might even choose a theme, such as Italian or German or French.
And, for those who don’t want to leave their yards, who want to just enjoy time away from work, that’s okay too. Grab a book, a lawnchair, something cool to drink, and set up in the shade. Go on an adventure without leaving your yard. There’s even a name for that kind of vacation — a staycation — which was introduced on a well-known Canadian comedy show — Corner Gas.
But, whatever you decide to do, just remember, the goal is to relax and enjoy your friends and family, or even your solitude. Summer doesn’t mean rushing from here to there. With a little over a month before school begins, there’s still time to enjoy the lazy, hazy days of summer, without spending a lot of money or having to travel far.
