Your Summer: Libby Navarro

What’s the first sign of summer where you are? That one thing that signals the changing of the seasons and the sweet beginning of longer, warmer days?

When the water starts to feel warm enough for a dip, and I can go on sunset walks at 8 p.m.

Summer food can be picked fresh from the trees, its sun-ripeness can be smelled before it is tasted, its abundance can make al fresco dinners go on for hours, and its colours make street markets come alive.

What are the flavours of your summer? The tastes that transport you?

Fresh salads—cucumber is a must. And I love all the summer fruits: cherries, stone fruit, watermelon, and strawberries!

"I love all the summer fruits: cherries, stone fruit, watermelon, and strawberries!"

Tell us about your perfect summer day – where are you going, what are you doing, and who are you with? What does it feel like?

A perfect summer day for me starts with a quick breakfast at home, then grabbing a coffee and snacks before heading to the river with some friends. I usually pack a ham, butter, and cheese sandwich. Then I bask in the sun, journal, read, and take a dip.

Afterward, we go grab buffalo milk soft serve to cool off. Then in the evening, I love to freshen up and make a simple, refreshing dinner.

"In the evening, I love to freshen up and make a simple, refreshing dinner."

Smell can be so transportative and often takes us back to a time or a memory. Tell us about the one scent that defines your summer.

The Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato candle burning in my house, and my summer perfume scent: FLEUR D'ORANGER 27—a fresh, floral orange fragrance.

What are your summer rituals – the little things you do each day to make the most of long, lazy days?

Long walks and early morning bike rides, spending extra time outside and in nature—whether it’s at the beach or in the mountains.