Seasons of Rosie: July

July: we’re officially in the latter half of the year. The older one gets, the faster time seems to go – suddenly the Summer hols are upon us in Scotland and I’ve barely had time to take stock. We’re now a whole week into the new month, but I still wanted to share this month’s Seasons of Rosie; I’m trying hard (for someone who doesn’t have an off switch!) to live by the second item on this list.

Pick Your Own:

There are few things more satisfying than picking your own fruit, sun-warmed and fresh from the ground. Berry and cherry season is in full swing and a trip to your local PYO will yield fruit far more delicious than the supermarket shelf. Last year I was a little too late and missed the best of the fruit at our nearest farm, so I’m determined to catch the season in its prime in Scotland this year – which I reckon is now upon us. Make sure your eyes aren’t bigger than your stomach or set aside the rest of the day to get preserving. Which leads me to point two…

Enjoy Slow Summer Kitchen Pursuits:

I love to potter in the kitchen, not least in Summer where there are lots of wee culinary tasks that can encourage you to slow down, live in the moment and be mindful. Podding peas is one of my favourite seasonal kitchen jobs, even if half of them don’t make it to the bowl (call it chef’s perk!) there’s something oddly reinvigorating about such mindless and repetitive tasks. Ditto watching a pot of simmering fruit compote, making jams or curds; the best thing is these makes taste miles better unrushed. It’s a win win – call it culinary therapy.

Plan a Staycation:

Planning a staycation, whether in your own home, nearby town or somewhere a little further afield in your country, is not only cheaper and better for the planet but also helps you see the familiar with fresh eyes. Never visited that local sightseeing spot? Play tourist at home and you might just start to see your everyday a little differently, too. We’re planning a wee Highland and Island(s) road trip and I couldn’t be more excited – do you have any Scottish staycation recommendations?

Visit the Beach:

Related to point three, it wouldn’t be the Summer holidays without a day trip to the beach – whatever the weather. I have such happy memories of trips with my family to West Sands, so much so that it’s one of the reasons I now call St Andrews my alma mater! Pack a picnic (and your waterproofs), take a train or road trip to your favourite beach and spend a day watching the waves and taking in the sea air. Good for the soul.

Celebrate Summer:

Bunting at the ready – the peak of Summer sees the height of garden party and village fête season. Take part in your local Summer celebrations or seek out your nearest country fair and make a day of it. If there’s nothing near you, then why not host your own Summer celebration? If you’re stuck for inspiration you could make it themed: a 4th July barbecue, themed with stars and stripes, or what about a patisserie-filled Francophile party for Bastille Day?

What are you doing this month? Do you have any ideas for July? All images via my Everything Looks Rosie Instagram.