Our 2021 Summer Bucket List

summer 2021 | Danielle Ravitch

The summer solstice is looming, can you feel it? Just next week we will experience the longest day of the year. The day many of us have been waiting for since the shortest day (of the year) in December, the official start to summer. And, while my fair Irish skin can’t take countless hours in the summer sun. Each and every day throws me into the nostalgia of times past, and makes me hopeful that we can create memorable moments for our girls this summer too.

On another note, next week also marks the last official week of our first year of homeschool. And, this milestone reminds me that there is so much to be thankful for, even after such a tumultuous year…

A few nights ago, we were all enjoying the cool weather out on the patio while Justin grilled up our grass fed burgers, and our homemade french fries buzzed in the air fryer. And, while the day ran smoothly and we accomplished all we set out to, something felt amiss. It dawned on me that I did not want our summer to get caught up in the monotony of routine. A routine our year ebbed and flowed through but one that threatened to keep us from adventure. So, I decided to grab a sheet of spiral notebook paper, and the only pen we had in the house to write down the dreams each of us had for the summer ahead. We decided to start small, and here is what we came up with….

2021 Summer Kayak on the Harbor

Ever since we moved into our home here in Brookhaven, we knew that it would only be a matter of time until we got out on the harbor. Truthfully, Sadie is 3 going on 4, and all parents out there know that it only takes one year to open a whole new world of possibilities. So, this year we are going to adventure out on the water, paddles (and lifejackets) in hand.

But, shhh…I have a little surprise planned in the next few days so, I can’t disclose too much info here…

HIKE TO A WATERFALL

Okay, this one is mine… and as much as I would love to venture 8-9 hours from Long Island to Niagara Falls, we are going to keep it simple for our first run. Have you ever heard of Buttermilk Falls? Because even though I am a lifelong New Yorker, I can honestly say I never have.

Buttermilk Falls is in the town of Ithaca, which is also the home to two major schools – Ithaca College + Cornell University. So, even though we are in the planning stages of this bucket list item, I somehow know Ithaca will not disappoint, just because Ithaca is a college town, and close to so many opportunities to connect with nature.

Have you ever hiked to a waterfall? Share your experience, near or far in the comments!

Go to a Drive-In Movie

What is the last movie you have been to? I can honestly say I don’t remember. To be honest, I’m not big on new releases or blockbuster hits. I am a slow warm up when it comes to new trends, movies, and music. In fact, the last movie I saw was here at home, and Barbie had the lead role (thanks girls). You know what though? I am completely okay with that…

What was the last movie you saw in the theaters?

Going to the drive –in…This summer we are planning to take our girls to their first drive in movie, and I cannot wait. I am prepping tons of snacks and comfy blankets to make the truck bed super comfy for our experience.

Now I know I did not cover all of the bucket list items but, stay tuned for our adventures in the posts to come. What are some of the adventures you have on your bucket list this summer?

Until next time,