Last week was a doosey – temps didn’t dip below 106! Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE summer and try not to complain about the heat (I complain enough about the cold), but we all have out limits, mine is 104 – anything above that is just HOT!
We are being treated to an extremely mild Northern California summer week with highs in the 70s and a chance of rain. This happens every summer, one cool week before 90 degrees (and higher) becomes the norm.
I know staying hydrated is important, and honestly, it is not my strong point. “Keep a beverage nearby and you will be more likely to drink it.” This hydration tip is one that I have put into practice. It is true, I do consume more over the course of a day. Unfortunately, I am more of a sipper than a guzzler, and as a result it takes me F-O-R-E-V-E-R to drink most anything. Case in point, my morning coffee is cold before it is finished.
I’m making an effort to stay more hydrated and have compiled options to keep on hand. They are not perfect, some have a bit of sugar, some have a bit of caffeine. This is a post that is true to my name, “Semi”.
My list of yummy drinks to help stay hydrated and refreshed this summer:
Infused Water
This requires a bit of prep but is well worth it because it is limited only by your own creativity and completely customizable.
Using the proportions of 4:1 works well for me (4 represents the water and 1 represents the additional ingredients).
The sky is the limit – use any fruits, veggies, or herbs you like! Struggling for inspiration, you are welcome to download this image to keep for inspiration.
Iced Tea
Do you ever look at a class of iced tea and instantly feel relaxed? I do. It does require a bit of planning, but with directions of add water and wait – you would be hard pressed to find an easier recipe.
Iced tea is great in any variety, black, oolong, or herbal – let your palate be your guide. But if you are seeking inspiration, check out one of these options:
Republic of Tea: Orange Blossom
Rishi Tea: Organic Green Jasmine
Splash of 100% Fruit Juice
I will be the first to admit that 100% Fruit Juice is expensive. But before you write off the idea hear me out. In a 12oz glass of water I add one, maybe two Tablespoons of 100% juice. Since you are using pure juice, a little bit goes a long way! Just be sure to read the ingredient label on the back, don’t let anything on the front try to sway you.
Lakewood Tart Cherry and Cranberry are delicious options!
Lakewood Organic Cranberry Juice
Grab & Go
Sometimes convenience is the priority and having some options at home or knowing what you want when you are needing to run into the store is key.
San Pelligrino does an excellent job of preserving minerals in their water by adding just enough CO2. The favor is enhanced by the glass bottle it is available in. ItThere you have it, my list of drinks that I will be enjoying this summer to help stay hydrated and refreshed. Don’t worry, water will be a staple beverage, but sometimes you just need to change it up (at least I know I do!) Enjoy! comes in a variety of flavors, but I enjoy the water itself, no need for flavoring.
Spindrift is my go for picnics, poolside, or on a typical afternoon. It tastes like real fruit is added because real fruit IS added. Delicious!
There you have it, my list of drinks that I will be enjoying this summer to help stay hydrated and refreshed. Don’t worry, water will be a staple beverage, but sometimes you just need to change it up (at least I know I do!) Enjoy!
