Whenever it isn’t summer, I’m thinking about summer. That’s how much I love this season. It probably doesn’t help that I was also born in the middle of August, which only heightens my insufferable fondness for the dog days.

Not everybody shares the same view as me of course, especially those living in Japan. The temperatures in Kyoto and other areas in the middle region reach dangerous levels, and can incapacitate someone within minutes of stepping out.

Even so, I’d argue there are far more wonderful things about summer than there are unpleasant ones.

Let me start with the summer festivals: local street food served from yatais, people donning yukatas, and ending the day with loved ones beneath a sky lit by fireworks.

Next is a dip in the water! Whether it’s a lake, a river, a stream, the beach, or the pool, nothing beats cooling off with a swim on a scorching summer day—but not without sunscreen, of course.

The third thing I love about summer is the seasonal food and beverages. Nothing beats the heat quite like yogurt- and citrus-themed desserts and drinks! My personal favorites are the yogurt-flavored cream puffs and lemon Calpis. Every summer, I find myself scanning the aisles of convenience stores in search of them.

Of course, let’s not forget the summer outfits. I love being able to throw on a T-shirt, a pair of jeans, and some sneakers before heading out the door. It’s a nice change from feeling weighed down by jackets, stockings, boots, and heavy winter coats.

Another thing I love? It’s camping season! There’s something so relaxing about outdoor barbecues, sitting beneath the night sky, and watching the stars while counting the little streaks of light that occasionally shoot across the sky.

Honestly, I could keep adding to this list, but we’d be here all day. Summer always seems to fly by so I intend to make the most of every warm evening, every swim, every camping trip, and every excuse to enjoy a lemon Calpis along the way. I can only hope this summer brings plenty of happy memories for my husband and me.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a summer itinerary to put together.