The Fourth of July in Southwest Florida reminds us that summer is in full swing, bringing fireworks, parties and a sense of community. I’ve spent many memorable evenings on the beach with friends and family, watching the sky light up over the Gulf while kids play in the surf. It’s a perfect blend of celebration, nature and togetherness.

The intense summer heat requires us to be mindful about our time outside; early mornings and long evenings offer the perfect window to explore. I prefer the vibrant shoreline colors and soothing ambiance at sunset, setting the scene for me to pause, reflect and reconnect with myself and the rhythms of nature, feeling more balanced at the close of the day.

In this month’s “The Great Outdoors” edition, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to help you connect with nature, move your body and feel refreshed. 

Our feature story, “The Microadventure Mindset: Finding Natural Splendor Close to Home,” champions brief, affordable getaways near home that can bring joy and perspective. Whether hiking a nearby trail or picnicking at the local park, these simple experiences help break up our tired routines and develop an intimate connection with the amazing flora and fauna surrounding us. 

“What can you do in the evenings to relax instead of watching Netflix?” asks British adventurer Alastair Humphreys who coined the concept of microadventures. It’s a challenge and an invitation to find wonderment and refuge in our own backyards and hometowns. See page 24.

Some of my fondest summer memories are of packing up breakfast with my kids and heading to the beach for an early swim and picnic before the sun got too hot. Those peaceful mornings—just the four of us—became weekly rituals that grounded and recharged us for a new week.

Spending time in nature through the eyes of a child is an adventure of its own. In “The Power of Outdoor Play,” Christina Connors reminds us that children are natural explorers—digging in dirt, chasing butterflies and asking endless questions. It’s how they learn best. Terry Murphy, founder of The Healing Chickadee, a grief support program for children, says, “Mother Nature nurtures and heals. The energy of trees, flowers, shrubs and grass feeds our souls.” See page 36. ???.

These days, I love spending time outdoors with my 8-month-old granddaughter, Zylah. The moment we step outside, her energy changes. I let her experience a little earthing (or grounding) by crawling barefoot on the grass. Research shows that even 15 minutes of daily contact with the earth has demonstrable health benefits.

Whether it’s a walk, a picnic or just sitting in your backyard, step outside, take a breath and let nature work its magic.

Wishing you peace, play and a touch of adventure this summer,

Sharon Bruckman, Publisher