June

June means (home) school is out and summer is officially here. Things have felt pretty heavy the past few months for us all with quarantine fatigue, an overabundance of alarming media and the recent events in the world. It's important to remember to give yourself a break, and find ways to bring some light into your life. 

Consider this newsletter your guide to a fun summer staycation. We have toy rentals, VRBOs, and ways you can serve your neighbors (while still staying 6 feet apart). Things are tough, but you can seize every opportunity to look on the bright side to ease the stress of these difficult times.

I hope you have a great and positive start to your summer, and wish you great summer days ahead! 

Inexpensive VRBO Getaways

A change of scenery, even if it is fairly close to home, can be a game changer when it comes to your mental health. Here are some inexpensive and beautiful VRBO rentals, all located within a few hours of SLC that would be great to share with your family for a quick getaway to recharge. 

Location: Park City 

Price: $275 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

This beautiful ultra-clean house is situated on the 'Gold Coast' of Park City in an incredible location. Park City Mountain Resort is the backyard and the center of Main Street is only two staircases away. You will not need to drive anywhere once you get to the house!

Location: Saint George

Price: $177 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

Fish Rock Retreat is a 2378 sq ft luxury home located at The Ledges of St. George. This 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home is set up to accommodate single or multi-family groups. The furnishings include all the upgrades you could ask for including flat-screen HDTVs, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances.

Location: Hurricane 

Price: $246 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

This spacious vacation getaway is set in sunny southern Utah just under a mile from Sand Hollow Reservoir and Dunes. The owners have thought of everything to make this spot a staycation for a small group to play in the private pool, learn pickleball, play volleyball or basketball.

Location: Heber

Price: $180 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

This iconic Heber property has been lovingly restored to reflect all of the charm and history that has made it one of the most well-known residences in Heber. Historically a town showpiece, it was beautifully restored with a modernized interior that captures the allure of its former life and has even been featured in Better Homes & Gardens Magazine. 

Location: Eden

Price: $356 AVG a night.

Click here for link. 

Pack your bags for a memorable Eden escape and stay at this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom vacation rental house! With sleeping arrangements for 10, several modern amenities, and a fantastic location near outdoor activities, this getaway is ideal for families and friends who want to explore the wilderness. Nestled across the street from Pineview Reservoir and only 20 minutes from Powder Mountain and Snowbasin Resort, this home makes it easy to experience the best of northern Utah!

Location: Bear Lake

Price: $267 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

This lakefront property boasts exclusive access to a boat ramp where you can utilize the kayaks and stand-up paddleboards provided. Located on the Fish Haven side of Bear Lake, the views from the enormous deck are unbeatable. 

Location: Scofield

Price: $326 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

This family cabin sits directly on the water for Scofield Reservoir with a private dock. Once here, you can discover all of the activities that Scofield has to offer. Try your hand at fishing year round, go for a hike, or drive up to see amazing beauty in the national forest. 

Location: East Canyon

Price: $330 AVG a night

Click here for link. 

Cabin/Lodge. Large and roomy. Affordable for a single couple, or great for families, too. 1 King, 2 Queen, 2 twin & 5 double beds (4 bunks) ready to go, with (4) pull out mattresses for a larger group. Regardless of sleeping arrangement, house limit is 30. Additional campers can be accommodated on the 23 acres. Over 3500 sq ft. Relax in an amazing great room with a large cozy fireplace.

"Toy" Rentals for your Family Getaway

What could make your family "stay"cation better than a boat, 4wheeler, ATV, or any other outdoor toy to play on? Here are some great rental places around the state that can give you the experience of a lifetime, without paying for it your whole lifetime. 

Toy Rentals

Jordanelle Rentals & Marina: Jordanelle Rentals and Marina provides boats, jet skis, and kayaks to play with on the Jordanelle Reservoir. You can find the link here. 

Epic Recreation: Epic Recreation in Provo provides rentals for everything from winter sports like snowmobiles, to boats and Jet Skis. You can find the link here. 

Action Toy Rental: In Millcreek, you can rent Jet Skis and boats. You can find the link here.

ATV Rentals Utah: Located in Saint George, ATV Rentals Utah provides boats, UTV tours, and jet skis for Sand Hollow and all the surrounding areas. You can find the link here. 

Showing Love From a Distance

During this time of uncertainty and social distancing, showing kindness to neighbors can lift the spirits of those around you. Here are a few ideas of ways you can show love and support from a distance. 

1. Send a surprise letter or gift: Whether you leave it on the porch or mail it to your neighbor, a surprise is sure to brighten anyone's day. It doesn't need to be elaborate, just a small reminder to make sure they know you care about and support them. 

2. Check on your at-risk neighbors: Since it is recommended that certain populations, like those 65+ and immunocompromised individuals, not go to public spaces, see if you can pick up groceries for them or run other errands. Something as simple as picking up a gallon of milk could make the world of difference, and relieve a lot of stress from those worried about their health. 

3. Host a drive-by parade or walk: It can be a lonely time, so getting outside and visiting from a distance is a great way to keep social connections. Arrange for a neighborhood parade where people can choose to walk or drive, or sit on their porch and watch. 

4. Arrange a neighborhood charity drive/ donation: Local food banks are always looking for donations, especially now. Set food donation boxes on your porch and ask for donations from your neighbors. 

5. Donate your time: If you are healthy and able, volunteer to watch your neighbor's children, walk their dog, clean their yard, or just do something to show you are committed to their well-being and happiness. It doesn't need to be elaborate, because every small gesture counts.