We’ve waited and waited and now the first official day of summer is almost here. The winter seemed longer and colder this year, not to mention all the rain and gloom spring brought with it. The weather is getting nicer and most of us are eager to get out of the house and enjoy activities in the fresh air and sunshine. The older we get, the old summer tradition of visiting an amusement park to ride roller coasters may no longer sound appealing. If it is, more power to you; keep riding those coasters until you can’t take it anymore. Now if you’re looking for something a bit mellower, read on for some various summer activities.

 

1. Visit a Local Museum

There are a variety of museums in the area that highlight local history that are fun and interesting. If you’re looking for something a little bigger or have already checked out the local museums, simply do a quick internet search and you are sure to find a place that suits your interests and is not too far away. If you need help navigating the internet, feel free to stop in at the COA and someone will be more than happy to help you with your search.

 

2. Attend an Outdoor Concert

In the summer there are many opportunities in the community to get outside and enjoy live music. Dowagiac offers their Summer Concert Series on Thursday evenings. You can enjoy vocal and instrumental performances with genres ranging from big band to the 40’s, rhythm and blues, jazz, bluegrass, and rock and roll. Cassopolis is hosting its concert series one Saturday a month through October. Back by popular demand, the COA is once again throwing its Outdoor Concert Series at the Lowe Center Pavilion in Cassopolis. Bring your chair, listen to some music, and enjoy the onsite food truck. Check out the back page of this month’s Messenger for more information.

 

3. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

When visiting a new place, we tend to check out the local attractions, but have you done the same in your own town? Check for local summer activities and take a day to reacquaint yourself with your surroundings and nearby attractions. You may even want to start strolling around your neighborhood. You’d be surprised at how many things in your community you never knew existed.

 

4. Volunteer

If you are currently retired, you know that one of the best things about it is that you have more time to pursue the things that are most important to you. For many people, this involves giving back to those in need. Look for charitable organizations in your area so that you can volunteer your time to help out. The COA is always looking for volunteers and values everyone who is willing to commit their time. Feel free to call (269) 445-8110 if you are interested or to just learn about our various volunteer opportunities.

 

5. Get in Shape

Summer is the perfect time for exercising, and there are numerous options available that are suitable for every age and skillset. You can get outside in the yard and do some stretches as you listen to the birds chirp or even follow a DVD at home to give you more tips and tricks to staying fit and healthy. The COA offers various fitness classes such as tai chi, yoga, cardio, or S.E.A.T class. These types of exercises are great for helping you stay limber and agile as you age. The more committed you are to maintaining your health, the longer and more enjoyable your life will be.

 

Whatever you decide to do to have fun this summer, just remember to keep moving, keep learning, keep challenging your brain, and keep engaging your senses. Now go out and enjoy your summer!

Author: 
Paige Nelson | Front Street Crossing Coordinator