So, I was just wondering…

As you probably already know (since I mention it every chance I get) I LOVE my hammock. My hubby built the frame several years ago and has replaced the hammocks twice. It’s a favorite place to read and relax and I use it every chance I get. Unfortunately, the bugs aren’t cooperating with my plans to lounge as much as possible lately and they are feasting on me and my family, even the dogs. F-ing bugs. They won’t keep me from my haven though!

Since my hammock is right in my backyard I don’t need much, just my book and sometimes my pillow. And sunshine, I love sunshine. A drink is a nice bonus but the book is my only requirement.  I recently stayed at my brother’s house to watch his pets for the weekend and that was a reader’s retreat. They have a pool, a pond, an enclosed porch with comfy furniture, a whirlpool tub and big screen TVs for the times I needed a break from reading (ha!). I’ve done that twice for them and it was more of a gift to me than it was a favor to them.  Last year my mother found  a small cottage for the extended family to rent at a nearby lake and that was heaven. I got to read on the dock, the porch, in front of the picture window and yes – even in a hammock. I even made time to go out in the row boat and spend time with family, although it doesn’t sound like it does it? I hope we get to do that again and again.  I haven’t been to the ocean in many, many years but the beach is a wonderful place to read as well. I remember spreading out my towel, unloading a pile of paperbacks and I was happy for hours. I have a cozy family room and fireplace to use for my reading retreat in the long winter months but these are my happy places to escape to in the warm weather. 

So I was just wondering, when you head to the beach, the lake, a cabin in the woods, the park or wherever your special place is, what do you like to take with you? What do you toss into your bag? Do you load up on supplies or is a book enough to make you happy? We all know if we’re packing for our families the supply list is endless – toys, snacks, sun block, wipes, towels, extra clothes… but what do you need for you? Where is your warm weather happy place and what do you take with you?