Welcome to June! This month, here in the Northeast, the school year (finally) ends. Summer solstice begins. Oh! And … it’s my birthday month!

I used to think of summer as a time to slow down. But, in reality, life with my family of five is just as hectic in the summer as it is during the school year. Work doesn’t predictably slow down for my husband or for me (I do love the idea of summer hours!). And our boys have jam-packed schedules year-round.

If it’s not relaxation, what makes summer stand out? To me (a forever East Coaster), it’s the weather! The days are so long - in a good way! Thank you, Daylight Savings Time! Three precious months of sunny, warm (even hot!) weather inspire some serious outside time. You’ll absorb more Vitamin D from the sun and inhale more fresh air. You’re more active: swimming, going to the playground, and taking long walks through the neighborhood.

But your hectic, outdoorsy lifestyle may cause you to eat on-the-go more than usual. Poolside and beac...