Rediscovering the Magic of Summer: Play for the win!

Ah, summer. ☀️

Those golden months that seemed to stretch on forever, filled with endless possibilities and joy. As a child, summer was a season of pure magic, a time when the world felt boundless and every day was a new adventure.

I remember those bright blue skies, so clear and vast, where the sun shone brightly from dawn until dusk. The days were long, and the nights seemed to be a short time for cool rest. Each morning, the cheerful chirping of birds would wake me up, filling me with excitement for the adventures that lay ahead.

One of my fondest memories is riding my bike.

That two-wheeled wonder was my ticket to freedom.

Pedaling down the street, feeling the wind rush past my face, I felt invincible.

I’d ride to the corner store, a few precious coins clutched in my hand, ready to buy 5 cent candies and a slurpee. The sweet taste of those treats was the very essence of summer.
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Swimming in outdoor pools was another highlight. The cool water was a welcome relief from the heat, and the thrill of jumping off the high dive was unmatched. I’d spend hours in the pool, racing friends, practicing underwater handstands, and seeing who could make the biggest splash.

I even made a video about my childhood swimming for The Why I Move Project here:

Playtime wasn’t limited to just structured activities. We’d invent our own games, like bottle cap, a neighbourhood favourite.

And who could forget the timeless classics like tag and hide and go seek?

Running around with friends, laughing until our sides hurt, we were masters of our own little world.

The days ran into the nights, and by the time my head hit the pillow, I’d be instantly asleep, dreaming of what the next day would bring.

These memories are etched in my mind, a reminder of a simpler time when the biggest worry was how many more hours of daylight we had left to play. But summer wasn't just about activities; it was about the feeling of freedom, the joy of discovery, and the camaraderie of friends.

What do you remember about your childhood summers? Was it the thrill of a bike ride, the taste of a favourite treat, or the excitement of a new game?

Take a moment to reflect on those days of sun-soaked bliss.

And now, as adults, what would summer play look like for us? Perhaps it’s time to rediscover that sense of wonder and joy. Whether it’s a leisurely bike ride, a refreshing swim, or a fun outdoor game with friends, let’s embrace the spirit of summer and create new memories that make us smile from ear to ear.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa