As June draws to a typically hot and steamy end, for many of us the summer is just getting underway: school is out, camp and sports leagues begin, and the lazy evenings of enjoying extra sunlight are bringing out the best in everyone.  Summer Solstice is just around the corner, signaling the mid-point of 2014.

Even as we look forward to longer days and more outdoor recreation time, we might also be reflecting upon our New Year’s resolutions, set forth as always with the best of intentions. Now is a perfect time to take stock of our wellness, and see if our current lifestyle plans still match up with the goals we set in Jan. 1.

Changes is family scheduling may have interrupted the flow of meals that were working wonderfully during the school year. If this is the case, take some time to assess what can be done to bring food choices back into alignment, even given the fact that busy young children running around often necessitates keeping plentiful supplies of snacks in the house.  Ask your family to help you come up with healthy, fun and refreshing treats for the summer months that will satisfy them, yet not sabotage your plans.

If getting to the gym at 7:30 a.m. is no longer an option because camp starts later than school, try to arrange for carpools with other parents, thereby creating a bit more flexibility for yourself. When the kids want to spend an afternoon splashing in the pool, engage in some aquatic exercises while keeping a watchful eye on the children; jogging in place is a terrific way to tone the lower body and burn calories, while staying cool and refreshed in the sunshine.

Longer days lend themselves nicely to after-dinner family bicycle rides. Pump up those tires, secure safety helmets, grab some bug spray and head out for the park or a nearby trail. These days, dusk doesn’t fully hit until at least 8 pm, so there is plenty of time to exercise together before bedtime.

If looking at the calendar causes you to lament any lack of progress toward your January resolutions, rest assured there is still plenty of time to regroup and get back on track. Happy, Healthy Summer Solstice…get busy!