Wow! Here we are in the middle of summer. Hope that everyone is enjoying some fun in the sun! I've just returned from the beach. For me, a vacation isn't about being sedentary and over eating or overindulging. One of the things that I love about the beach is the opportunity to add some variety to my activity. It's great to get up in the morning and go out for a run along the ocean. Best way to start the day! The sun is just coming up and not too searing hot yet, the sound of the waves crashing down helps to pace my run, and the firmness of the sand by the waters edge is great for my muscles - better than the macadem along the road!  When we head to the beach with our chairs and umbrellas and coolers, we also have packed our paddle ball and our horseshoe set and a soccer ball! Games are so much fun played in the sand! There are other people around us playing boce ball or throwing a football. And of course the mid afternoon walk down the beach is always refreshing. Of course, the cooler is filled with plenty of water and healthy snacks. It is so important that we take advantage of our surroundings to get us moving. No reason to  use vacation as an excuse for not getting your exercise.  Use the time and the fresh air and the presence of friends and family to join together and participate in some really fun activities. And most of all, go ahead and enjoy that cone of ice cream - just be sure that you are walking to and from the ice cream shop to make it guilt free.

Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

Beth