With summertime in full swing, we're looking for "easy" ways to boost our immune system. What better way to start than with sunshine and sleep?

Research and studies have shown that sunlight energizes our T cells, which play an important role in immune response.

Whether you're at the beach, in the mountains, on the river, or wherever your favorite hobby takes you, know that you're helping yourself while you do it!

But as with most things, safely enjoy the sun in moderation. Wear sunscreen and don't overdo it. We're in it for the long haul.

When you do make it back inside, there's another health benefit waiting for you -- sleep!

The NBA (among others) are investing time, money, and resources into the advantages of rest and recovery. 

Our bodies also produce and release cytokines while we sleep. These are proteins that target infection and inflammation. Those are the types of proteins we want to keep around. So instead of watching just one more episode on Netflix, shut it down and go to bed!

For everything in between, you can choose to add vitamins and supplements to your diet or routine. We keep it simple with Flinstones Vitamins, but there are countless options out there to consider. Please be careful and do your research before going all-in.

Living in a major metropolitan city doesn’t mean you need to eliminate hiking from your choice of hobbies.

Whether it’s a local walking tour of San Francisco, an escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, or the forested trails outside of Atlanta, you’re sure to find an adventure waiting for you.

San Francisco

While there are plenty of parks and rolling hills in the Bay Area, we put it on this list for the exercise and heart rate you can experience just by walking around the concrete jungle within ‘The City.’

Start at the Golden Gate Bridge, head east to Fisherman’s Wharf, down to Coit Tower, over to the Transamerica Pyramid, and finish at Union Square. That’s if you think you can make it. It’s not for the faint of heart…

Los Angeles

Known for its glitz and glamour, Los Angeles is also surround by the Los Padres, Angeles, San Bernardino and Joshua Tree National Forests.

Or if you’re looking for something totally unique, hike up to the Hollywood sign! It’s fun for the entire family, with a great view.

Atlanta

If you’re in Atlanta proper (or in Athens visiting Todd’s alma mater), you’re not too far from Coosa Valley at the southern tip of the Appalachian Mountains.

If you’re looking for something more in the city, it’s still a beautiful area for you to enjoy with several trails and parks to choose from. And if you happen to sprain an ankle, contact the nearest location of East Georgia Regional Medical Center.

It's human nature to want to quit or stop before reaching the finish line. That goes for anything in life, including (and especially) chores assigned by dad. When you start something, you better complete it. And it better be done with thought, care, and effort. Words that were taught at a young age.

One of the first jobs that I was able to help my father with was washing the car. Growing up, keeping the family cars clean was always a weekend project at home. I'll never forget the first time he inspected the vehicle, after I thought it was "done." I was proud of myself, to be quite honest. Instead, he opens up each door with disappointment and disgust. In my house, a washed car wasn't a clean car until the ENTIRE car was clean. I learned quickly that also includes the water and dust collected between the doors.

Even though I remember thinking he was crazy and looking for any excuse he could find, that conversation in the driveway has stayed with me for two decades. 

Wiping down the door jambs, an often overlooked part of the vehicle, is important to keeping your car in good condition. I'd recommend using someone else's towels the first couple times. If you've been ignoring them, they're filthy. Trust me. I notice them nearly every time I jump in someone else's passenger seat.

Wow... just like that, before we know it, we turn into our fathers. And the younger generation looks up at us like we're some crazy, grumpy old men. Really, we're just finally starting to realize that maybe dad was right all along. Now if only these darn millennials would start listening.

BOGO for Father's Day Weekend