Summer goes by within a blink of an eye. Three months of summer vacation can feel like three seconds, and in no time you're back in class taking notes again. Although it seems to fly by, summer gives us endless things to be thankful for. As you sit in that classroom wishing you were back on the beach, just think about all the things you can treasure from the summer that seemed to slip right through your fingertips:
1. Escape from the real world
Even if you spend your time working or taking classes, summer vacation allows you to take a break from the real world. No weekly classes, hours of homework assignments, or studying for finals. A mental health break is definitely needed after a long semester and summer embraces the sweet smell of freedom.
2. Time spent with friends and family
Spending time with friends and family is a major priority in life, but sometimes life just makes it hard to get together. With everyone embracing their summer break, getting together is easier and more enjoyable. Family dinners and friend bonfires are easy to coordinate when everyone is willing to take some time off to just sit back and relax.
3. Family vacations
Whether its a trip to the Outer Banks or a road trip to California, family vacations are unlike anything else. Vacationing with your family can turn out to be the highlight of your summer or the disaster you all laugh about for years to come. Bonding with your family members brings you closer together and creates the memories of a lifetime.
4. Adventures
Summer is the perfect time to go on adventures. From hiking to cliff jumping, the incredible memories you made while you let loose will remain in your heart forever. And who knows, maybe you even discovered something about yourself that you never knew existed.
5. Summer Treats
Ice cream, iced coffee, and ice pops don't taste as delicious as they do in the summer during other seasons. Sure, you may have gone a little overboard with the S'mores at all those bonfires, but you can work off those extra pounds during the winter. If you are still angry with yourself that you consumed more brownies in one night than you have in your whole life, just remind yourself that summer vacation is the time to let go and enjoy yourself.
6. Traditions
Summer is full of traditions like mini golf, beach excursions, and Fourth of July celebrations. These traditions are the ones that will stay with you forever and stand out in your mind when you reflect back on summer vacation. They're also the things that will get you through the never-ending school year. Look forward to those fireworks!
7. Outdoor games
Playing Corn Hole, Kan Jam, and outdoor volleyball are the perfect games to entertain guests at barbecues or just to spark some friendly competition. Outdoor games also allow you to enjoy the beautiful summer weather before its too late. Remember your neighborhood basketball victories or reflect on the friendships you made with your teammates.
8. Beach Days
The memory of smelling salt in the air and watching blue waves crashing will remain in your mind forever. Beach days are what make summer well, summer. Whether it's with your friends or family, these days are full of relaxing and soaking up the sun.
9. Exercise
Working out in the gym gets the job done but exercising outside enhances your experience. Memories of running and biking are the park will get you through being stuck inside the gym, reminding you that better weather is ahead.
10. Relaxation Time
Relaxing in the summertime is truly like nothing else. Recall the times you relaxed outside reading a book, and happiness will instantly come back to you. The summer breeze is the most relaxing thing in the world, and it is definitely something you should thank summer for.
