Summer is in full swing! My grandson, Lil' Dude, is excited about his summer of no homework, pool days, and video games and my daughter, the schoolteacher, has already completed a trip nearly halfway around the world! With its long days and built-in break from school, summer is a great time to travel, take a long staycation, or explore new hobbies.

However, since summer plans include moving homes for many families, those in our industry are in the thick of our busiest season! No farmer would take a break during the planting or harvesting seasons; likewise, movers can't pause during the busy summer months.

Movers are not the only ones whose work peaks, or at least does not break, in the summer. So I've taken a mini poll from coworkers, friends, and family who are in the same boat to see how they skip the FOMO (fear of missing out) and make the most of the season. Here are the best suggestions:

1. Make the most of the luxurious long daylight hours by catching an extra-early sunrise long before the day's hustle and bustle begins, setting a positive tone for the hours ahead.

2. Mornings not your thing? Summer also offers leisurely long evenings with beautiful sunsets that provide for relaxing strolls at the end of the day.

3. Impress the neighbors with your skills at the grill with a weekend BBQ. The smell of grilled food and the sound of laughter can be incredibly rejuvenating.

4. Transport yourself to another world with a great summer read! Reading is a fantastic escape, even if just for a few moments during lunch breaks or before bed.

5. Have a weekly family movie night, perhaps even setting up a projector in the backyard! Light-hearted, fun films will capture the spirit of summer.

6. No matter the color of your thumb, take a little daily vacation tending to your garden and enjoy the satisfaction of watching things grow and flourish.

7. If you can't get away, explore local treasures via day trips or minivacations: pack a sketchpad (if it's your thing) and head to the beach, hike in the mountains, or visit a zoo or museum. A change of scenery can reset the mind, reveal undiscovered gems in your hometown, and break up the monotony.

Heck, I might even commandeer a truck at work and satisfy my wanderlust by making a delivery a thousand or two miles away!

Whether or not you have a traditional summer break, I hope you enjoy what the season has to offer and find moments of joy and relaxation amidst the hustle. Have suggestions of your own? Please share! I would love to hear them.

Off to plan my next hike…