The Hidden Gems in August

When we think about August, the school calendar is what first comes to mind for most of us. Whether it’s your children, grandchildren, or even just school buses now showing up in our commutes, it’s hard to escape the return to classrooms in all our communities.

Looking at a calendar of special days, however, August is a busy and eclectic month. It recognizes everything from water balloons to garage sales to roller coasters and the tooth fairy.

In other words, at some point, someone decided to make August about fun.

For many years, it was bittersweet for me because I was taking my granddaughter home to Oklahoma after she spent the month of July with me in Texas. But we always managed somehow to turn that trip home into an adventure.

We used the time driving to talk about our goals for the year ahead, what books we wanted to read, and our favorite memories from that summer. We also used it to SHOP! We would pick out several small towns en route and randomly decide where we would look for treasures once we were there.

We made August about fun as well.

Since those days are behind us, I enjoyed researching this meandering month’s calendar, and several of the celebration entries brought a smile. They brought back memories from when those things were indeed what we celebrated as the summer was winding down.

Here are a few that several calendars agreed are celebrations that take place over the month:

• American Artist Appreciation

• Back to School

• Family Fun

• National Eye Exam

• National Inventors

 As I read that list, I thought of the summer fairs I’ve gone to over the years in August, where I discovered many of my favorite local artisans.

 And, of course, it seems looking back to be one of the busiest months to get our eyes checked! Probably something to do with going back to school!

 I love that it’s National Inventors month. It might be fun to research everything spawned from that over the years.

 Beyond back-to-school, though, the question that kept coming up for the items on the list was why August? All I could conclude was that someone chose it and shared it with others. And it took on its own life from there. It’s a classic example of how traditions come about.

 What does August represent for you and your circle? Do you have an August touchstone? Is there something that grounds this time for you?

 Need some ideas? Check out this list of 24 things to do before summer ends. One of the best lists I found!

 Choose one and let that be what you plan for August 27th – National Just Because Day!

 Happy August to all!