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guard against harmful UV rays to avoid the risk of skin cancer and sun damage. Vitamin D, known as the sunshine vitamin, is naturally synthesized via the sun’s rays. Sunscreen of SPF 30 can reduce synthesis by about 95% so it’s important to protect your skin with sun protection.

SMART SUN-SAVVY SOLUTIONS

You can’t go wrong with a pair of stylish sunnies, visor, cowgirl or wide-brimmed hat, parasol and handheld fan to help shade you from the sun and stay cool (in more ways than one).

Sunbrella to the rescue...windproof, waterproof, and sun proof, so you’re well equipped to brave the summer elements. Whether you’re staying dry, dancing in the rain, staying in the shade, or dancing in the sun, keep a compact umbrella with UV ray protection handy for when you’re on the go.

WET ‘N WILD WATER FUN

Why not make a splash at your next outdoor cookout? Whether or not you’re able to cool down and splash around at the beach, pool, lake, or any other body of water, you can still have fun cooling off with water in your front or back yard (love that sprinkler and water hose!) or a local park. Mist yourself with a portable misting fan and/or fill spray bottles with water and a few drops of essential oil(s) or flavor extract(s) (optional).

Time to fill up those water balloons and water guns and tag team your workout with a wet ‘n wild game of water tag. Fill up the kiddie pool and bring along some water- and funloving toy friends for kids and kids-at-heart like a rubber ducky (“you’re the one; you make water time so much fun”), pink flamingo and, of course, a mini shark floaty (Jaws soundtrack plays in background).

Bring a cooler filled with ice where the drinks can chill, as you do. Listen to some chillax tracks and your fav summer songs, whether it’s a smaller intimate gathering with a few musician friends or a voluminous venue, complete with a DJ and musical acts and/or other entertainment.

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER