So, my mindset regarding the start of the school year is unlike many others parents. I’m always sad to see the summer end — even when my children were small, and I was a stay-at-home mom. The beginning of the school year always signaled the transition of long, silly summer nights to short, homework-filled evenings, schedules and hustle and bustle. Thus, I tried to hold on to that carefree feeling as long as possible, cramming outdoor activities into our last few warm, sun-filled weekends.

My children are adults now, but my affection for summer remains. I’m still looking for ways to spend time outdoors. This summer, I had the opportunity to spend time at one of my favorite places on earth: the beach! Any ocean-side beach will do — I’ve gotta have waves, seashells and sand — throw in a bucket of Thrashers French Fries doused in malt vinegar, and my life is complete.

I try to hold on to that beachy glow as long as possible, so bronzer is one of my favorite makeup items — especially since I’ve found an inexpensive version: e.l.f. Essential Sunkissed Glow Bronzer. It retails on their website for an incredible price of $2. Pair it with the e.l.f. Essential Bronzing Brush, also $2 and you’ve got a bit of sunshine for less than a Lincoln!