Launder

FRESHEN BEACH TOWELS

After a season of swim and sun, most towels could benefit from a deep clean. Launder them in the washing machine on the hottest setting with a cup of white vinegar. If any chlorine or musty odor lingers, wash them again with ½ cup of baking soda and hot water. A two-step drying process freshens the scent: Tumble-dry towels most of the way on high, for softness; then, when they are just damp, move them to an outdoor clothesline to finish drying.

GENTLE REMINDERS

Now is the time to slow down the garden’s growth in preparation for fall. Stop feeding lawns, perennials, and woody plants by mid-month. You want to avoid new growth popping up with too little time to mature before temperatures drop.

Take a run on the beach. It’s not only beautiful—running on sand is easier on your joints but also burns more calories than running on pavement. If you aren’t used to it, start out on the hard sand closest to the water, and wear shoes. Add barefoot runs, starting off short and working up to longer ones to avoid injury.

Pack travel kits for kids: Keep them occupied during long hours in the car or plane by filling backpacks with activities (see page 259 for a few ideas), ideally ones they haven’t seen before: new coloring books, sketch pads and colored pencils, and travel-sized games. Don’t forget snacks!