By Jodi Granok

Has the summer heat got you beat? Maximize your energy level by organizing your summer tasks. Here are six key tips to keep a “cool” head this summer:

1) Plan outdoor chores for the coolest times of the day – Schedule your mowing, weeding, and gardening activities for the early part of the morning or during the last hours of daylight in the evening. Apply sunscreen every few hours and drink water at least once an hour to prevent dehydration.

2) Organize your errands – To beat the heat, group errands together to save time and gasoline. Aim for 2 days of shopping per week. Bring water with you in the car, as well as your sunglasses and a layer of sunscreen (don’t forget to reapply that sunscreen!).

3) Avoid over-exertion indoors – Cook, clean, and wash clothing early in the day or in the evening to keep you and the house as cool as possible. On really hot days, close the curtains to avoid excess heat from outside.

4) Use seasonal produce to spice up dinner time – Create meals that feature summer fruits and veggies, such as sliced tomato and cheese salads, grilled corn, chilled gazpacho soup, and homemade ice cream with a fresh berry topping. Get input from all family members on their favorite summer foods, and use the store sales circular to plan a week of delicious home-cooked meals.

Summer Kitchen Tip: Cook double portions of hot items and freeze the leftovers. You’ll use your oven less but have double the amount of homemade meals. To avoid heating your kitchen altogether, prepare meals on your outdoor grill.

5) Pack for trips the night before – To jump start any outing, gather your supplies together the night before. Pack the car in the evening. Prep your food and bag it up in the refrigerator. Lay out your travel outfit, and charge up all of your electronic equipment before you go to bed. Now you’re ready to get up and get out!

6) Make a list of indoor attractions – Have a list ready of local places to visit when it’s either too hot or too rainy to go outside. In addition to the 3 M’s (museums, malls, movie theaters) turn your home into a fun, air-conditioned escape. Convert your basement or family room into a camping ground, picnic site, or movie theater for a new twist on an old favorite!

About the Author

Jodi Granok is a professional organizer and speaker who is passionate about helping others reclaim their lives through the “magic” of organization. Jodi is the Owner of Organizing Magic, LLC, a professional organizing company in the metropolitan St. Louis, Missouri area. Through her presentations, newsletters, and workshops, Jodi’s humor, energy, and common sense approach have motivated busy students and families to put her tips and tricks to work, in order to get organized and stay organized! Subscribe to her free newsletter today!

 

About Manifest Excellence, LLC

Health promotion and empowerment company Manifest Excellence®, LLC  supports people with optimizing personal wellness by addressing the five key areas that impact health. They combine over 20 years traditional medical experience with a comprehensive & holistic wellness philosophy to provide innovative and effective wellness strategies. They enthusiastically teach a comprehensive approach to health and wellness that addresses mental, emotional, social, spiritual and physical well-being

 

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jodi_Granok
http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Organized-for-the-Summer-Season&id=7153722

 

 

Donna Hamilton, MD, MS, FAAP
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