My Korean name means ‘summer’ or ‘sunshine’, and fitting for me as summer used to be my favourite season when I was younger. One of my fondest childhood memories was spending the whole day at the beach with my family. We’d either have a Korean BBQ or get a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken with a bag of Okanagan peaches, cherries, or watermelon. I loved being in my bathing suit all day long – feeling the warm air against my skin, swimming in the ocean, and slowly drying off in the hot sun. My summer days were long, relaxed, and carefree – full of freedom and simplicity. At the end of the day, I’d usually fall asleep on the car ride home and climb straight into bed with my swim suit, still feeling the radiant warmth from my sun parched skin.

I’ve learned some of the best experiences in life are free and simple. Here are a few creative ideas to keep your summer affordable. No excuses, get out there and have fun!

©2014 Susie Lee