So somehow… it’s already the end of July??

I don’t know how we got here either. One second I was ordering my first iced latte of the season and the next, I’m sweating through linen shorts wondering if I’ve done enough this summer.

But here’s the thing: there’s still so much time left. August is basically one long, golden-hour-drenched, slow-living moment if you let it be. There’s no rulebook that says you have to have already checked everything off your bucket list by now. And honestly, the whole “doing the most” thing? Kind of overrated.

This year, I’m letting go of the pressure to make every second count. I’m not chasing the “perfect summer” — I’m just trying to enjoy it.

Here’s my realistic summer bucket list — the kind of list that doesn’t stress you out, and actually fits into your life (even if you’re working, sweating, or just in your homebody era).

1. Eat dinner outside

Not every meal has to be an aesthetic picnic. But something about eating in warm air with the sky still glowing makes the most basic dinner feel like a scene from a movie.

2. Go for a walk without headphones or a destination

We’re overstimulated. All the time. Try letting your thoughts wander, or just people-watch. It’s one of the easiest ways to feel grounded.

3. Host a low-effort picnic

No elaborate charcuterie boards needed. I’m talking fruit, bread, maybe a tin of something, and your go-to drink. Imperfect is charming.

4. Try a new coffee (or matcha) order just for the plot

You’re allowed to change your mind mid-summer. Be an iced lavender latte girl one week, a cold brew-with-oat girl the next, and suddenly a banana matcha from Cosé girl the week after that (IYKYK). Summer is the perfect time to experiment with fun orders just because you can.

5. Rewear your favorite outfit multiple times

There’s something powerful about loving how you look and not feeling the need to switch it up. Accessories can do the work if you need to switch it up.

6. Romanticize a solo day

Spend time with yourself on purpose. Go to a bookstore, stroll through the city, grab a table for one. You don’t have to wait for plans to feel like you’re having a summer.

7. Visit a local market and buy something totally unnecessary

Fresh flowers, funky candles, overpriced jam — it’s all part of the experience. Bonus points if you walk around pretending you’re in a small town in the south of France.

8. Actually look at the sunset

The temptation to film or post it is real, but try putting your phone down for once. Let the colors hit you, not just your camera roll.

9. Dress up for the smallest thing

Pick out an outfit that makes you feel like you — even if you’re just going to the pharmacy. Style is a form of self-expression, not an occasion.

10. Say yes to a plan you didn’t see coming

Not every summer memory is made in your planner. Sometimes it’s that spontaneous 5 à 7 with a friend or an impromptu ice cream run that sticks with you the most.

Summer doesn’t end when July does. There’s still so much to soak up — and you don’t need a vacation to feel like you’re living.

You just need small moments that feel good in your body. Even if it’s something as simple as fresh fruit in the fridge, or a really good outfit you put on for no reason. The point isn’t to do everything. It’s just to enjoy what you can, while it’s here.

Let August surprise you. There’s still time — and you’re not behind.

Love, Laura