How do you like to spend the Sabbath during summer months? Are you taking advantage of the season and enjoying the weather and fresh produce that this time of year offers? Here are a few ideas for making the most of summer!
Summertime Sabbath Ideas:
-Spend your day outside. Get outside for some fresh air! Not only is the fresh air and sunshine good for your health, but it can make for a more restful day. Being outside means I'm not as distracted by all the things there are to do at home, and my focus isn't on whatever work there is to get caught up on or what needs cleaned up around the house. If you have kids, getting them outside means less mess to clean up later. Time in creation naturally calls our attention to the Creator's ways. Enjoy your backyard, a nearby park, lake, or the beach.
-Fresh fruit. Can you beat the convenience or deliciousness of fresh fruit at this time of year? Make fresh produce a big part of your food intake on the Sabbath and you'll spend less time in the kitchen. Pick up whatever is in season at a nearby orchard, the farmers market, or the grocery store and you have instantly taken care of part of the food you'll need for the Sabbath. Have a big bowl of blueberries out to snack on, or serve peaches or melon for part of the meal, or dessert. Support your health while having less work to do!
-Sprinkler baths. While bathing kids can be a lot of work, sometimes it's necessary on the Sabbath. Why not make it a little easier - and a lot more fun - by swapping out the bathtub for the sprinkler, the hose, kiddie pool, or dip in the lake or swimming pool? Send kids out to swim or play in water and call it good enough. Make this chore into something a lot more fun for kids and more peaceful for you.
-Make ahead salads. In the warm weather, I find cold dishes so refreshing. Most salads are simple to make, and if you're utilizing a lot of fresh vegetables in raw form, they come together quickly. And is there a better feeling when you're hungry of opening up the fridge and seeing something delicious ready to eat? You don't need to be coordinated, just grab the salad when you're ready to eat, no need to heat up the kitchen or making sure the crockpot gets started by whatever time. Make a cold salad or two to enjoy on the Sabbath. Here are some great recipes to get you inspired.
Related posts:
Five Ways to Have a More Peaceful Sabbath
Get Outside this Shabbat
Summer Salads for Shabbat
