Today marks the Summer Solstice (Midsummer or Litha) for 2015. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year. It is a time for harvesting herbs, because it is said that this is the time when they are at their most potent. It is a time for summer fruits, bonfires, and days at the beach or pool, or maybe even taking a vacation away from home. It is a day filled with growth and abundance.

The summer months have always been my favorite. I love the heat, the sun, and the scents of everything that’s blooming. Although, with hot flashes well upon me, I have to admit that my views about heat have changed just a little! Still it means I get to wear my favorite articles of clothing…tank tops, shorts, bare feet or flip-flops. It means my favorite fruits are in abundance…mangoes, strawberries, peaches, and nectarines.

Summer solstice also marks the beginning of the darker half of the year, when nights grow longer and the days shorter. But we still have several more months of fun in the sun. So enjoy it to the full. Get your fill of BBQ’s, picnics, beach and pool parties, and bonfires (if they’re still permitted in your area). Go fishing, do some gardening, go for a round of golf, a sail, a run, or a hike. Whatever it is that’s the ultimate in summer fun…get out there and do it!