I started my summer the Italian way — in Roma, eyeing the jaw-dropping sculptures of Michelangelo and the Botticelli frescoes. I thought to myself, I’m doing it right; nobody can say I wasted my summer. I’ve explored a new country and sated my thirst for art and beauty.

I drank more cappuccinos and ate more gelato than wise, but with each consumed treat I couldn’t escape the thought: What if this is the last one?

One morning I awoke in Florence, dressed quickly, and skittered into the city. I stopped at the first cafe I spotted. Gladly shoving my euros into the waiter’s hand, I accepted my cappuccino with a smile.

Sitting down on the tiny bistro chair, I sighed and mentally catalogued the day: What’s next? Oh yes, climbing the Duomo tower. I pulled out my iPhone to map directions to the cathedral as my eye caught two women sitting at the table next to mine. Both were leaned back in their chairs, legs crossed, chatting vivaciously in Italian. There was barely a dent in the two tiny espressos before them, and I watched as the waiter appeared to take their order for “due croissants.”

How relaxed they looked — totally unaware, it seemed, that there were things to get done today, cathedrals to see and famous sculptures to behold. It occurred to me: What if seeing and doing things was not their priority this bright and sunny morning? What if instead it was simply to enjoy each other’s company and savor an espresso?

I left Italy in quite a different state of mind than when I entered. I started my trip in a spirit of carpe diem, desperate to leave no cobblestone unexplored and no pasta uneaten. I left the country walking slowly, knowing that I may never gaze on La Pieta again and that the details of St. Peter’s Basilica will eventually fade into murky memory. I accepted the fact that life is fleeting, moments happen and end quickly, and even treasured memories fade.

If you struggle to feel fulfilled during the summer months — either burned out from an excess of adventures or bored from the lack of them — I’ve got good news: This summer can be different. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you determine to make the most of the coming months.

1. “Busy” does not equal “best.”

Western culture perpetuates the myth of “the busier, the better.” If I learned anything from being in Italy this summer, it’s that Europeans enjoy slowing down and savoring moments.

Don’t fall into your friends’ social media traps, envying accounts of their last absurd extravaganza. “Scuba diving with sharks!” “Climbed Machu Picchu!” “Cruising in the Caribbean!”

You wish you were in their shoes, that you could be cool like them, someone with a life of meaning and adventure. But other people’s experiences should never diminish the joy of your own. Experience your summer in your style and at your pace.

2. Make much of little.

Several of my friends lamented to me, “I wish I could go to Italy this summer! But I’m stuck here all summer with no exciting travel plans.” Hey, it’s not every summer I go to Italy, either. Seek out and seize the opportunities you have in your backyard.

Save money and plan picnics, learn to cook different ethnic foods, paint or color with friends, go for hikes, pick up pickleball or basketball, or start a summer Bible study or book club. There are a multitude of fun and free ways to spend your summer. Don’t let your circumstances, income or other barriers hold you back from making much of your summer with a little.

3. Prioritize people over experiences.

If you live in a community (hint: we all do) then there is much to do involving your friends, your home church, and your fellow neighbors. In Matthew 18:20 Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” The day after the summer solstice is a great time to observe Summersgiving, an opportunity to gather with friends, eat traditional Thanksgiving foods (optional), and count your blessings. Play games on your back porch and prioritize great conversation.

What may seem to be “basic” activities, if they are done in the love and spirit of Christ, are special moments of communion with Christ and others. You don’t need an international vacation to put “meaning” into your summer. The most important — and soul-filling — work you can do is love the people God has placed in your life.

4. Slow down and rest.

Rest is as important as work in the Christian life. Exodus 20:8 says, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” God commands His people to rest. Resting not only encompasses physical respite but practicing thankfulness before the Lord. In the busyness of your summer activities, take time to slow down, sleep, and recall God’s goodness to you, whether through keeping a journal, sharing gratitude with friends, or meditating in Scripture or prayer.

Summer goes by in a flash. But with a little planning, prioritization and intention, you’ll have time to enjoy it — and maybe relish one more cappuccino.

Copyright 2025 Anne Ziegler. All rights reserved.