(7/2023) Find an activity that the whole family enjoys. Of course, I am thinking of doing something that will get you moving and burning up some of the energy the kids have along with burning off some of the calories we may have consumed. Depending on where you live it may be a great time for a family walk or bike ride. The back yard is a great place for a ballgame, bad mitten match, basketball or just jogging around.

Now that the kids are out of school we need to keep them active. I know the hot weather can make us feel tired and not want to be out in it but there are things we can do. Take a walk in the early morning if you are an early riser. Schedule a walk with your family or friends in the evening after the air is not as hot. Get in the pool if you have one or meet friends at the community pool for a refreshing dip and good conversation. You can always find something to do to get some exercise while still taking care not to overheat or overdo in the hot weather.

If you are trying to lose a little weight I have found that keeping a food log helps you to not over eat. Sometimes it surprises you when you look at how much you ate that day. Having to write everything down may make you think twice before putting that bite in your mouth.

Planning your meals for the week will enable you to include a protein, vegetable, fruit and carb for each meal. Preparing snack bags will also help you make healthier choices. Cut up the veggies and fruit and put them in single serving snack bags. If you look in the frig for something to snack on and they are already prepared it is easier to grab and go. This way you will be eating healthier and not just grabbing whatever is in the frig. Planning meals helps you eat less calories and a better variety of healthy food.

Keeping an exercise and water log also ensures you get these important components of a healthy lifestyle in each day also. It's easy to get water when you are outside in the hot weather because we get thirsty but sometimes we forget to drink our water when we are inside most of the day. Getting enough water is not only important if you are trying to loose a few pounds but it is essential to our overall health.

Since we are made up of mostly water, we need to replenish our body's water to keep our organs and body functioning properly. Sometimes you may think you are hungry and reach for a snack when you are really just thirsty. Try drinking a glass of water first and maybe you'll find you don't need that snack after all. Of course, water has no calories but that snack may put you over the food intake for the day and eventually add a few pounds you don't want.

Nice, warm weather is here now and summer and hot weather will be here soon. Get outside and enjoy it while you can and think ahead of how you will stay active even during the hot months. It's important to our body and mind to stay engaged and keep moving.

Have a great summer!