Discoveries in my own “Backyard”

I have to admit that summer is my favorite time of year. I love being outdoors and I find that some of my most creative moments are when I sit on my deck amidst the trees and flowers, or enjoy my early morning walk, watching the neighborhood wake up. I love breathing the fresh air and sunshine and just being.

Summer is also the time that we love to go on vacations with our families. The kids are out of school, so trips to the beach, lakes or theme parks are on the lists of many Americans. I always look forward to going our cabin in Michigan where our family stays for a month of lake living. I can’t wait!

However, I enjoy the summer in my own city, particularly in June. I don’t have to travel across the country to find a wealth of wonderful adventures right here in my own backyard.

I am always excited about the variety of outdoor venues. It seems that every weekend there is something going on that I can’t miss. For example, First Fridays in Kansas City is so much fun. Local galleries in the CrossRoads Art District open up their galleries and studios to the public and the area is abuzz with music, laughter and people of all ages from across the city.

At the same time, there are occasional shopping adventures that happen the first of every month. Places such as Urban Mining, Good Juju, Thistle, and Bottoms Up, where booths of collectors share their incredible selections of vintage finds. I can’t get enough of them! The discoveries are endless and it is such a treat to be able to talk to the individuals who set up their booths and share their passion for collecting and discovering.

The art fairs are incredible as well. When I see the talent of so many artists and designers, I am humbled by their creative spirit and productivity. As I was wandering the Prairie Village Art Fair a few weeks ago (an annual must attend event) it made me wonder how many other communities across the country are doing the same thing, and what am I missing?!! Not only is the art incredible but the food, the smell of BBQ, and local eateries tease my senses as I am reminded of the great culinary talents in my own backyard.

I’m sure you have markets in your area where you can buy the locally grown vegetables, homemade jams and other edibles. I admit I don’t have much time to garden, but I don’t need to when the beauty of a pile of fresh tomatoes or bouquets of fresh flowers is available to me every Saturday at markets all over the city.