Summer Staples

Can you believe we are already half way through summer? That means we still have plenty of time for good summertime fun. Here are few things I rely on to combat some of the common side affects of the season. Any water fun or boating must include a good life vest. I like the neoprene version that is available. This is one we got for our little guy but you can get one in any size you need. The comfortable fit makes life in a vest a little more tolerable. (Currently on sale at The Greenhouse Ride Shop but I also got similar vests for my big kids at Costco. I think I may go back to get a new one for me.)

If you are planning a lengthy stay in a life vest (like our recent trip to Lake Powell). You would be wise to stock up on the large sports band aids (flexible fabric) for the chin area. It can put a damper on your photos but so does a terrible red rash from constant rubbing. Just pop them on in the morning and hit the water.

This is an oldy but goody. We live near the beach and keep a bottle of baby powder in our beach bag and our car at all times. A little dash of this classic staple will make sand disappear with the gentlest rub. No more sandpaper scrubbing to keep the sand out of your car.

If you somehow go awry and get a sunburn, Noxzema cream will help cool your burn while also moisturizing. We have replaced our traditional aloe vera gel with this. After a week in the sun (all day, every day) I had to turn to this remedy and can say it soothed on contact.

If the mosquito's like you, I have found Avon's Skin So Soft Replenishing Lotion to be the best repellent around. (It is currently on sale for dirt cheap.) I also noticed the Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion . I haven't personally tried this product but like the sound of it. "DEET-Free. PABA-Free. Very water-resistant, sweat-resistant. SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection." Sounds good to me.

It's not a glamorous topic, but we have a little guy who is very sensitive to dry weather and can bloody noses very easily. We find a little neosporin at bedtime (or vaseline if that's all you have) keep the passages moist and reduces the incidents nasal distress.

So get out there and live up your summer. Let me know if you have any good staples I should add to my summer tote.