Summer is here, and with it comes weekend getaways and quickie vacations! While the basics of what to pack for a summer vaca are obvious (clothes, perfect pair of sunglasses, sandals, and swimsuit), there are a few additional items I always seem to forget. I read blogs, magazines, and summer pinterest boards; great ideas for my summer vacation wardrobe always spring to mind. Unfortunately, year after year, my dreams are dashed as I go through a never-ending carousel of swimsuits, breezy maxi dresses… or repeatedly wearing four pairs of yoga capri pants. Even though my summer vacation wardrobe tends to be an epic fail, I always have a blast.
I’ve always been an advocate of making seasonal to-do lists in order to keep life interesting. Without further ado, here are my five summer must dos!
1.) Family Vacation
I have come to associate the month of July with resorts and Minnesota’s 10,000 Lakes. Every July for the past four years my family has come together for a week-long vacation. If you’ve never been up North to the Brainerd Lakes area, I would highly recommend it!
2.) Longville Turtle Races & Frosty’s Ice Cream
One day during our week-long vacation, the Fink family vacates the cabin and abandons the beach in favor of Longville, Minnesota. We pile into the car and head into town, where the main street is alive in anticipation of Longville’s iconic turtle races. The festivities resemble a mini-county fair, with activities and food around every corner. A trip to Longville isn’t complete without a visit to our favorite ice cream shop, Frosty’s.
3.) All Pints North Summer Brew Fest
July 26th, I will be heading to Duluth for the All Pints North Summer Brew Fest 2014. Held in the beautiful Bayfront Festival Park, this awesome event celebrates Minnesota craft beer and breweries! There are unlimited beer samples, live music, and local food vendors. If you’re interested in attending, tickets are still available!
4.) Create Something Artistic
I love to get creative when decorating for special events. This year I was inspired to spruce up my boyfriend’s parents pontoon for the 4th of July boat parade!
5.) Impulsive Road Trip
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of hastily packing my bags and setting out on a spontaneous road trip! Someday I’ll pick a place I’ve always wanted to visit, grab my best friend or boyfriend, and start driving!