10 Simple Pleasures For The Month of June

1. June's Origin

June is named after the Roman goddess Juno, the goddess of marriage and fertility. This is part of the reason June is such a popular month to get married, hence the phrase 'June bride.' June also derives from the Latin 'juniores,' meaning 'younger ones' - a name that contrasts with the Latin for May, referring to elders. Such summery weather is fitting for a celebration of youth.

2. Flag Day

Flag Day, or Flag Birthday, is a Patriotic holiday that falls on June 14th. While July 4th celebrates our country's independence, Flag Day is dedicated specifically to the Stars and Stripes. The very first Flag Day is believed to be celebrated in 1885 by a schoolteacher, who encouraged celebration among his students on behalf of the 108th anniversary of the adoption of the official flag design we know today. (http://www.usflag.org/history/flagday.html)

3. Father's Day

June 16th is Father's Day, always the third Sunday of the month. Take some time to celebrate fathers and father figures alike and all they have done for you! Bring on the dad jokes!

4. Juneteenth Day

June 19th, otherwise known as 'Juneteenth,' commemorates the abolishing of slavery in the U.S. In 1862, Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, and on June 19th 1865, men and women were no longer allowed to be owned as property. Later, slavery was officially ended in all corners of the country in accordance with the 13th Amendment.

5. Summer Solstice

June 21st is the first official day of summer! This is the longest, sunniest day of the year. In the North Pole, the sun doesn't even set at all! So go outside and make the most of this beautiful midsummer ambiance.

6. Pearl and Alexandrite

June boasts two beautiful birthstones, said to be symbolic of those born during this month. Pearls are believed to symbolize wisdom gathered through experience and are thought to emphasize the integrity and and purity of the wearer.

Alexandrite is another of June's birthstones. This rare gem, recently discovered in the 19th century, is said to bring good luck and encourage harmony between the physical and spiritual realms.

7. Rose and Honeysuckle

Not only is June associated with two birthstones, but two flowers as well. The first of these is the classic rose. Aside from the obvious symbolism of love and romance, roses are also said to represent a vow of secrecy. The ancient Romans adorned meeting room ceilings and doors with roses to emphasize a commitment to confidentiality.

Very simply, honeysuckle is believed to represent happiness and affection. With its soft yellow color and sweet taste, it's not hard to see why.

8. Sparkling Spiked Peach Lemonade

Along with the gemstones and flowers, I feel each month should have a signature drink, too! I can think of nothing more seasonable than Sparkling Spiked Peach Lemonade - perfectly sweet and refreshing.

Get the recipe here! - https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-sparkling-spiked-peach-lemonade-the-10-minute-happy-hour-206387

9. Swimming

The pools are open- time to swim and sunbathe! Or, if the beach is more your style, the water's warm there, too! But if you're pale like me, make sure to slather on the sunscreen... :)

10. Cookouts

Cookouts- the all-American pastime. When you've finished swimming, nothing tastes better than a hamburger or hot dog fresh of the grill!