Welcoming Summer: Embrace the Sunshine!
Summer is finally here, and I couldn’t be more excited! It’s time to enjoy those long, sunny days, warm evenings, and all the outdoor fun that comes with this wonderful season. There’s something so invigorating about summer, isn’t there? The vibrant energy, the scent of blooming flowers, and the golden glow of the sun make everything feel alive. While we often hear about the importance of protecting ourselves from the sun, it’s equally important to soak up its many benefits. Here’s why getting some actual sun time can be fantastic for you:
Boosts Vitamin D Levels
Did you know that just 10-30 minutes of midday sunlight a few times a week can boost your Vitamin D levels? Vitamin D is essential for keeping our bones and teeth healthy, supporting our immune system, and even lifting our mood. So, stepping outside for a bit can really make a difference!
Enhances Mood and Mental Health
Feeling a little down? Sunshine to the rescue! Natural light helps increase the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone that brightens our mood and makes us feel more positive. That’s why a sunny day can often chase the blues away and bring a smile to our faces.
Improves Sleep Quality
Want to sleep better at night? Spend some time in the sun during the day! Sunlight helps regulate our body’s internal clock, making it easier to get a good night’s sleep. There’s nothing like waking up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Supports Skin Health
Believe it or not, moderate sun exposure can be good for your skin. It can help improve conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Just remember, moderation is key!
Promotes Physical Activity
Summer is the perfect time to get moving. Whether it’s hiking, biking, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely walk in the park, these activities not only keep us fit but also let us enjoy the beautiful weather. Plus, it’s a great way to soak in some sunshine!
Tips for Safe Sun Exposure
While enjoying the sun, let’s be smart about it. Here are a few friendly tips:
Seek shade: Take breaks in the shade, especially during the hottest part of the day (10 AM to 4 PM).
Wear protective clothing: Hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts are your best friends when it comes to sun protection.
Stay hydrated: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially when you’re outside for a long time.
So, as we welcome this beautiful season, let’s make the most of the sunny days ahead. Embrace the warmth, enjoy the outdoors, and remember to bask in the sun safely. Here’s to a fun, vibrant, and joyful summer!
Love always,
The Freakin Rican Team
Entreprenuer Spotlight: An Interview with Marisa de Jesus Paolicelli
Can you tell us about your passion and what drives your work?
My passion in life is to help Puerto Rican children, and children of all backgrounds, succeed in literacy. Literacy, reading, and writing can help children fulfill their dreams. Literacy is an important tool and the foundation for many positive attributes for children, such as doing well at school, problem solving, making decisions, and working.
What inspired you to start your independent publishing company, A Caribbean Experience Con Amor, LLC?
Due to my love of children and reading, A Caribbean Experience Con Amor, LLC, an independent publishing company, was formed. We publish children’s stories and related activities. As the owner, my sincere desire is to share the wonders and beauty of Puerto Rico with Puerto Rican children and with children of all backgrounds through my educational and entertaining children’s books. These books have won several International Latino Book Awards: *There’s a Coquí in My Shoe!*, *Lightkeepers to the Rescue!*, and *A Jibaro’s Miracle*.
What are your main goals in writing children’s books about Puerto Rico?
My goal in writing children’s books about Puerto Rico is fourfold: (1) to strengthen the image of Puerto Rican children through literacy, reading, and writing; (2) to build a sense of pride and belonging of their heritage; (3) to experience the wonders and beauty of the island; and (4) to stimulate interest in cultural diversity.
Can you share a bit about your background and how it influenced your work?
Both my parents were born and raised in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and their education was up to about a sixth-grade level. I was born and raised in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. During my childhood years, we lived in low-income housing developments, and I was not exposed to many opportunities and was saddened about the things I could not afford to do that other children could. Books opened a new world for me, and I fondly remember the best time of the week was when the bookmobile came to my block. My love for books and reading would take me to different places where I would experience other worlds. Little did I know that one day I would write my own books and form a publishing company that spoke to my Puerto Rican roots and that these same books would speak to Latino children. Unfortunately, my parents did not get a chance to see any of my published books as they both passed away before publication. However, a piece of each of them lives on in my stories.
Your books have received several endorsements. Could you tell us more about that?
Yes, endorsers to the children’s books include Oscar Winner Rita Moreno, Grammy Winner Jose Feliciano, Professional Golfer Chi Chi Rodriguez, Broadway Legend Chita Rivera, Actor Erik Estrada, and the Estate of Roberto Clemente by Vera Clemente, who all provided glowing endorsements to the stories.
What are some of the recognitions and roles you’ve held within the literary community?
I am extremely grateful to be the recipient of the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Golden Latin Awards in Pennsylvania. I served as a judge for the 2018 Oregon Book Award’s-Eloise Jarvis McGraw Award for Children’s Literature, and a judge for the 2018 International Latino Book Awards. I am also a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators.
What exciting projects are you currently working on?
My first children’s book, *There’s a Coqui in My Shoe!*, is presently being adapted into a musical play, which is set for release in late 2025.
I read the book and must say it was really well written and engaging, brought me back to my days in Puerto Rico. Even learned a bit of the history. Can’t wait for the musical play, we will definitely be the first to see it!
Thank you, Marisa, for sharing your inspiring journey and passion with us. We are honored to feature you as our Entrepreneur of the Month! Please share with our readers where they may go and find out more info about you and purchase your books.
Thank you so much, it has been an honor. You can find me at:
Marisa de Jesús Paolicelli
P.O. Box 1155
Avondale, PA 19311
(610) 806-2013
Email: marisa@marisadejesus.com; Website: www.marisadejesus.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/marisa.d.paolicelli
