The August Agenda

August is always a busy month. Not only does it mark the final month of summer (even if the calendar says otherwise), but it’s filled with tons of fun events, trips to the beach, and with any luck, some time away.

As much as August makes me sad because I know the warm weather and long days are dwindling, I look forward to the activities this month brings. So let’s dive in!

Read: I’m proud of how many books I’ve read this summer. I went from reading solely blogs and magazines to ticking off a book per month. Pretty good, in my book (pun intended). Going into fall, I hope to finish two books a month. But for now, I just got through Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, and can I just say, I think that book changed my life?! It was such an inspiring read and I’m looking forward to sharing a full review with you in September. This month, I’ll be reading Rising Strong by Brené Brown.

Do: Unfortunately, I’m going to miss Battle of the Burger presented by the Long Island Pulse magazine this year (see ‘Go’ below for why). If you’re on Long Island, you don’t want to miss this fun burger judging competition, which will be held at the Shorefront Park in Patchogue on Sunday, August 14th (click here for tickets). In a way, I’m glad I won’t be there because I don’t know how I could ever decide between Vauxhall, Dirty Burger, and GM Burger Bar (all of which are incredible burger joints on the Island). It’s going to be a tough competition, to say the least.

See: My summer wouldn’t be complete without attending the Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton, New York. The equestrian competition, which runs from August 28th – September 4th is one of the largest outdoor horse shows in the United States. Whether you’re an avid equestrian, or just someone looking for something fun to do on the East End of Long Island, this is the place to be. There are tons of vendors on-site, and when you are through with the show, you can head into town or to Southampton for lunch and more shopping. Maybe you’ll even catch a celebrity sighting. If you are planning a day at the horse show, be prepared to spend a lot of time in the sun (as shade is at a premium). You’d be wise to have plenty of sunscreen and water on hand. For more information on the show, click here!

Go: I’m going to be taking a road trip next week as I head from New York to Florida (by car going down and then flying back up). It will be the longest I’ve ever been in a car (with the exception of driving the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles to San Francisco). Follow my journey on Snapchat and Instagram (@livinginsteil), and let me know if you have any fun recommendations for my time in North Florida (or ways to pass 18 hours in the car!). My posting schedule will be a little lighter than normal next week. You can expect new content Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

What’s on your agenda this month?