Spotted this on a walk with some friends

Have you ever noticed how just holding your camera up to something can set it apart and make it special? Plus, documenting what you see will help you remember your walk and may inspire you to do it regularly.

You might be surprised at the beauty you find, even in a place as familiar as your own neighborhood, when you slow down and look. And if you can have a friend or loved one join you, all the better.

2. Be a tourist. Familiarity breeds boredom. Sometimes we can get in a rut. But you don't have to wait for vacation to be a tourist. Add some fun to your summer by going someplace new in your hometown.

Maybe it’s a new restaurant or shopping district. Or is there a nearby area or attraction that you’ve never visited? Look up official tourism websites and ask friends for ideas. Years ago, my daughter took me to her favorite local park called the Mill, which offers a waterfall and historic equipment from the mill's operational days. Even though it's just around the corner, I had never been before and loved seeing it with her.

It's surprising sometimes what you can find within a few miles' radius.

3. Try something new. My daughter likes to try new things, and she's fearless in the kitchen. I don’t love to cook, but I do like to spend time with her. Some of my favorite memories are of us baking something for a school assignment.

One morning a few months ago, I got an email from her. Mom! I need to make madeleines tonight for French class. Here's a recipe. Usually she gives me more notice than that, but it didn't take me long to gather the ingredients. That evening, she jumped right in, beating eggs, melting butter, sprinkling powdered sugar, and videoing the process in French along the way. The madeleines turned out yummy, she made a good grade, and we had fun together.

Is there something you’ve been wanting to try? How can you involve your family or a friend? Or is it something that you’d enjoy doing alone? Whatever it is, put it on your calendar today to ensure that you do it. I'm going to do the same as soon as we can all compare calendars.

Here's to summer. May yours be filled with sunshine and fun and magic. And may you experience and enjoy the beauty around you.

What new things do you want to do or try this summer? What are your summer plans? I'd love to hear in the comments below, or send me an email at glimsenblog@gmail.com.

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