Stayin' Cool...

I saw this dude in a big red truck the other day.  He sure thought he was cool.  He had his windows down, his shirt off, and his bleached hair flying in the breeze.  He really did think he was pretty awesome.  (I think men are born thinking  knowing that...)  But this is not the "cool" I'm talking about...  I'm talking about staying cool on hot summer days.

My kids and a cousin having some summer time fun.

Here are 10 things we do to stay cool...

1. Drink lots of water.  No caffeinated, carbonated, sugar drinks.  These kind of drinks only serve to dehydrate you farther and leave you feeling worn out.  
2. Eat lots of fresh salads, fruits and vegetables.  These foods are not only served chilled, but they are easier for your body to digest.  Try to avoid heavy, greasy foods and starches that will leave you feeling tired and sluggish.
3. Wear sunscreen when you are going to be out in the sun for long periods of time. This is what we use.
4. Eat foods that are high in Beta-Carotene like carrots, yams, sweet potatoes, apricots, mangoes, squash, pumpkin and sweet peppers that will help prevent skin damage and burning from the sun.
5. Use a safe bug repellant something similar to....this.
6. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UVB rays.  (talk about bein' cool....)
7. Eat popcicles made from fruits and without added sugars.
8. Try to avoid milk and dairy products when you are going to be out in the sun.
9. Make lots of memories in the form of homemade ice cream at the end of a hot day.
10. Don't forget to have an occasional water balloon fight with the kids.