As we step into September, we find ourselves at a familiar turning point—the sun-drenched days of summer are beginning to wane, making way for the crisp, refreshing embrace of fall. There’s a touch of nostalgia in the air as we say goodbye to a season brimming with warmth, light, and endless adventures.

It feels like only moments ago we were diving headfirst into summer, eager to savor every sun-soaked second and the magic it brought with it. Now, even as I find myself dreaming of cozy sweaters, hot apple cider, and the first hints of autumn leaves, there’s a bittersweet pull in my heart as summer quietly slips away. The long, golden days filled with laughter and joy are already becoming cherished memories, and as the air turns cooler, there’s comfort in holding on to the warmth and happiness that summer gave us.

But who says we have to let go of summer completely? To keep that sunny spirit alive all year round, let’s remember the little joys that made these past few months so special. Here are some simple pleasures of summer that can continue to warm our hearts, even as the seasons change.

25 Summertime Joys to Keep Close to Your Heart:

1. Sunset picnics by the water
2. The smell of fresh-cut grass
3. Lazy afternoons in a porch swing
4. Picking berries at a local farm
5. Sharing stories and toasting marshmallows under the stars
6. Walking barefoot on the beach.
7. Listening to crickets at dusk
8. Peach iced tea
9. Waking up with the sun
10. Long bike rides on country roads
11. Lighting a lilac candle on a warm summer evening
12. Visiting a local fair or carnival
13. Freshly picked flowers on the kitchen table
14. Driving with the windows down and your favorite song playing
15. Homemade lemonade
16. Fishing at dawn
17. Eating ice cream cones that melt faster than you can eat them
18. Dozing off under a big, shady tree
19. Visiting botanical gardens
20. Making s'mores
21. Harvesting fresh herbs and vegetables from your garden
22. Boat rides on the lake
23. Savoring a barbecue meal with loved ones
24. Crafting with seashells
25. Air-drying laundry outside

Summer is more than a season; it’s a feeling—a collection of moments that remind us to pause, to breathe, and to savor life’s simple pleasures. As we turn the page to a new chapter, let’s carry a piece of summer with us, cherishing the memories and eagerly awaiting the return of our favorite season.

What are the summer moments you’ll hold onto?