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...

Now that sunshine and 70 degree days have come to New England, it finally feels like spring. And with spring comes the realization that summer will be here soon!

Summer is my favorite! I love the long days of sunshine with my sweaty, bronzed kiddos. I love trips to the beach and, of course, barbecues!

I hope your summer weekends are full of barbecues! These summer gatherings are about food, yes, but there’s also all about family, friends, and fun!

Memorial Day, the unofficial start of barbecue season, is coming right up. The 4th of July will be here before you know it, and I’m willing to bet your Independence Day celebration will likely involve a barbecue. And, if you’re fortunate, just about every other weekend will also come with its own barbecue opportunity.

What comes to mind when you think of a barbecue? I think of music filling the air. Volleyball and badminton. Lemonade and iced tea. Grills. And food! Glorious food!

You know the barbecue menu - hot dogs, hamburgers, pota...