in August

basket of peaches In May, I set a few goals at the beginning of the month. Having small goals is something that helps me take incremental steps towards something bigger. So, with the goal of enjoying the month of August to the fullest, here are three things I plan to do in the last month of summer.

1. Indulge in summer fruit Undoubtedly, my favorite thing about summer is the abundance of fresh fruit. Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Peaches, plums, and cherries. I can't get enough. But, for as much as I love baking, I rarely make desserts with summer fruit. This might be due to the fact that it's too delicious not to eat immediately. Another aspect is my hesitation to turn on the oven and make the apartment even warmer. I have been eyeing recipes for a summer peach tart and a cherry clafoutis and think it's time to branch out. Do you have any favorite summer fruit desserts?

2. Visit Crater Lake The past months have been focused on making the most of the warm weather with trips to the coast, gorge, and forest. Our sights are now set on Crater Lake and a camping trip in the Umpqua National Forest. Crater Lake, created when the volcanic mountain collapsed, is one of Oregon's most beautiful attractions.

3. Find a doctor This might seem like a silly goal, but while living in the Netherlands, I struggled to find a primary care doctor that I felt cared about my long-term health. This could be attributed to the requirement that you had to register with a doctor in your neighborhood. Having moved three times, I also changed doctors as often. Now, I am determined to find a caring physician in Portland. Recommendations are welcome.

What will you do in the month of August?

Photo by Hannah