Making Time For Summer (Even When It’s Busy)
Photo by Vicki Bartel
I feel like I say this every year but… how is it already almost summer?
This is usually the time of year where I realize I’ve been so wrapped up in work, projects, timelines, installs, emails (you know the drill) that I haven’t actually made any plans to enjoy the warm months.
Which is wild, because what’s the point of building a life and business you love if you don’t actually take the time to live it?
This one feels a little personal for me because at Timber + Plumb, we are BUSY.
Like, full calendars, tight timelines, always onto the next thing kind of busy. And while I genuinely love what I do (like, deeply), I’ve learned the hard way that if you don’t intentionally carve out time for life outside of work… it just doesn’t happen.
So this is your little nudge (and mine too) to start making some summer plans. And no, I don’t mean some elaborate, two-week European vacation (although if that’s your vibe, go off). I’m talking simple, doable, actually realistic plans that you can look forward to.
Because sometimes it’s not about going far, it’s about being present. As a way to spark an idea of something you could plan this Summer, we’ve come together as a team and listed some ideas for you below:
A backyard BBQ with your neighbours or a few friends. Doesn’t have to be fancy. Toss something on the grill, open a bottle of wine, sit outside longer than you normally would. Those are the nights you remember.
A craft night with your best friends. You already know how we feel about creating… less scrolling, more doing. Grab some supplies, pick something random, and just make things together. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be fun.
A one-night staycation with your partner - you don’t need a full week off to reset. Even one night away can feel like a total refresh.
If you’re local to Windsor-Essex, there are actually some really cool spots to check out. The Grove Motel is such a vibe if you want something elevated but still close to home. Seacliffe Inn gives you that little lakeside escape feeling. Lungovita has been recommended to me a few times as well. And if you’re into something a bit more unique, there are so many beautiful boutique Airbnbs tucked throughout Essex County that make for the perfect quick getaway.Look out for a cool summer festival in your community or others that you'd like to be apart of. Maybe you love movies so you want to attend TIFF in Toronto, or maybe you love butter-tarts so you're going up to Midland, Ontario for their annual butter-tart festival.
Even just a weekend reset. Turn your phone on do not disturb, go for a walk, hit a local market, grab a coffee somewhere new. You don’t have to leave town to feel like you’ve stepped away.
The point is, you don’t need a huge plan… you just need A plan.
Because if you don’t schedule it, it won’t happen and we know that sounds dramatic but it’s true! The calendar fills up FAST, especially this time of year. So block off the time. Treat it like a meeting you can’t cancel.
We have both started doing this, literally putting “life” into our calendar. A dinner, a night away, even just an afternoon to do nothing. And honestly? It’s been a game changer. We spend so much time building, creating, working toward the next thing… and that’s all amazing. But summer has a way of reminding you to slow down a little, soak things in, and actually enjoy the life you’re building.
So this is your sign to make the plan. Send the text. Book the night. Host the BBQ.
You deserve it!
Cheers,
Markie + Candyce