August was hot, and full of reflections and things I love! I learned much about myself, overreached my monthly reading goal, and took it easy. August was one of the best months of the year so far!

One. Lifting weights at the gym. August was the first full month of the year when I went to the gym three times a week and lifted weights. In four weeks in August, I increased every weight across all my workout routines. At the beginning of the month, I felt so out of place that I didn’t belong. I could hardly lift just the bar. Now, I am a proud gym girl who adds two-and-a-half-pound weights to the bar without feeling embarrassed! Everyone has to start somewhere.

Two. The Princess Diaries book series. These books crack me up! In my opinion, the series is nothing like the two movies, however, they are still as fun. They are a quick read and easy on the mind. They are my go-to books when I finish a tough novel.

Three. Making seasonal bucket lists. I started this for the summer season and knew instantly I would need to make one for the autumn season. I used printer paper, and summer-colored pens to list things I wanted to accomplish/try by the end of the season. I had tasks such as fishing, playing tennis, walking to a nearby coffee shop, and traveling. I did not accomplish the entire list, however, it drew inspiration for days I had extra time. A couple weeks ago, I created my autumn bucket list!

Four. Solo mini golf. This summer I was at the Putt Hutt many times. The first time I went I wasn’t sure how fun it can be to putt a round of mini golf solo would become! There is no pressure to hit crazy shots, nor any rush. Some evenings, I finished the course in fifteen minutes, or so. I highly recommend trying any activity, especially mini golf, by yourself.

I had a fabulous August, as noted in the four things above. I planned, tried new things, and enjoyed the last bits of summer.

Danielle.