Going to school in the city, there are a lot of activities I miss while at school. Although I love the city and the fast-paced lifestyle, I do enjoy coming back home and relaxing. There are some things about the country that just don't exist in the city. As much as I don't like bugs and random insects crawling everywhere, and the severe threat of ticks, I do enjoy picnics, stargazing and laying on a blanket looking up at the clouds hearing nothing but birds and the wind. If you ever find yourself in the countryside or just in rural New England, take a moment and enjoy these activities!
1. Stargazing
There's nothing like laying in a field looking up at the stars.
2. Hike up a mountain
At home, hiking is a past time that so many of my friends enjoy. In the city there just aren't enough mountains to climb!
3. Fresh air
Going back home, when I breathe in, I can sense the difference in air quality, plus being surrounded by all trees probably help.
4. Berry picking
Berry picking is one of my favorite summertime activities. They are good for you, and who doesn't love a good berry?
5. Enjoying the absolute silence at night
In the country, you don't have to worry about cars and trains whizzing by. It's so peaceful.
6. Bonfires
There's nothing like a bonfire with s'mores with your friends on a summer night.
7. Relaxing in hammock between the trees
There's nothing more relaxing then reading a book on a hammock in the shade.
8. Swinging on a tire swing
I have so many fond childhood memories swinging on the tire swing in my backyard.
9. Clam bakes
There is nothing like a New England Clam Bake. The lobster, clams, chowder (the creamy kind, not any kind that has tomatoes in it! That is not chowder, it is soup, chowder is thick and creamy!)
10. Swimming holes
Nothing says summer like taking you dog to the local swimming hole to cool off!
Growing up in New England for the summer, there were certainly times where I wish I was in the city, with the option of public transportation, a plethora of theater and Shakespeare in the Park, but I've come to realize that nothing beats going to the local pond and swimming with people you've known your whole life, having a bonfire with your friends, laughing about the multitude of ways people like their marshmallows and being able to basically be as loud as you want without people complaining next door. As much as I love living so close to the city, I wouldn't trade my country summers for the world!
