Ease Into Summer: Finding Joy Right Where You Are

The heat is rising, school’s out, and June is here—which means it’s officially summer in the desert! But instead of rushing to pack your bags for a faraway getaway, what if this was the season you slowed down… and explored what’s right in front of you?

I’m a big fan of wanderlust, don’t get me wrong. But sometimes, the best adventures are the ones closest to home—the little shops you’ve driven past for years or the trailhead just twenty minutes away. As summer sets in, I’m easing into the season by looking around, not far ahead.

Whether you live in the sunny Southwest like I do, or somewhere completely different, this is your reminder: you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gotten away. In fact, some of my favorite memories were made close to home.

Let Curiosity Be Your Compass

Last night, I finally visited a local spot that I have driven by many times, but was often in a rush and didn’t have time to check it out. It was great to take the time and explore another gem in the area.

That’s the fun of micro-adventures. They don’t require weeks of planning or plane tickets. They just need a little curiosity—and maybe a water bottle and a wide-brimmed hat if you live in the desert like I do.

A Few "Close to Home" Ideas to Kickstart Your Summer:

1. Rediscover Local Parks and Gardens
You’ve probably been to your neighborhood park—but have you walked it at sunrise? Bring your coffee in a thermos, listen to the birds, and let the day start quietly. You might spot new blooms or catch golden light that feels straight out of a movie.

If you’re near Yuma or other parts of Arizona, places like the East Wetlands, West Wetlands Park, or Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix offer unexpected beauty and shaded strolls.

2. Plan a "Hometown Tourist" Day
Pick one Saturday to do all the things a visitor might. Is there a historical museum nearby? A famous mural or food truck you’ve always meant to try? Map out a little itinerary, pack some snacks, and be a tourist in your own town. Bonus points if you take photos like you’re on vacation!

3. Try a Sunrise or Sunset Hike
We may not get those breezy coastal mornings, but we do get the most stunning sunrises and sunsets. Hikes like Telegraph Pass or Palm Canyon are beautiful early in the morning or just before dusk. The key is starting early (or going late) and bringing plenty of water.

Not a hiker? Even sitting on your porch or in your backyard as the sun sets—maybe with a cool drink or your favorite summer playlist—can bring that same slow, seasonal peace.

4. Make One "Someday" Happen This Month
We all have those spots we’ve said we’d check out someday. A trail, a museum, a lunch spot, a roadside attraction. Make this the month you finally go. It doesn’t have to be a big event—just pick a date, invite a friend if you’d like, and go make a memory.

Let This Be the Summer of Simple Joys

Easing into summer doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing things that truly fill you up. The small joys. The nearby beauty. The little rituals that make the season feel special, without the rush.

So here’s to lemon water in the shade, watching sunsets, wildflowers by the roadside, and taking the long way home just to see what you discover. You don’t have to go far to feel refreshed.

Sometimes, a sunny summer day is waiting for you just around the corner.

Tell me—what’s something near you that you’ve been wanting to explore? Let’s make this the summer we finally do it.