As I sit in my apartment, I look out the window. It is a dismal day where it feels as though the cold air is seeping in through the walls. Despite wearing a sweatshirt and using a blanket, I am still shivering. Most would guess that I am discussing an average February afternoon, but that is incorrect. In fact, that is my end of April reality. There have been hints of warm weather -- a weekend in the high seventies that left me with sunburn serves as proof -- but we are still dealing with shivers and even some flurries. The only way to stay warm seems to be by thinking about what I want to do this summer.

1. Spend Time at the Beach

Although I live over two hours away from the shore, I definitely want to utilize this time off from school to go to one of my favorite places: the beach. It's always worth the trip.

2. Try New Recipes

Personally, I love to bake and cook. Summer is the time for barbecue food and fancy, sweet drinks, so I cannot wait to try out some new recipes.

3. Attend a Few Concerts

Outdoor concerts are significantly more fun than regular ones. Good weather and good music? What better combination can you possibly get?

4. Go on a Sunrise Hike

Waking up early and hiking up a mountain in the dark is a daunting task, but the beautiful view is worth it. Afterwards, you can spend the day just enjoying the weather amongst the trees.

5. Have a City Day

This may only be applicable to those that are a short drive away from a city, but even if you are not, just have a day out shopping in a cute town center. Personally, though, I hope to spend a few days in the nearby New York City.

6. Visit Friends from School

Going to school four hours away means that I have made friends that live far from my hometown. Hopefully, this summer, I can take some trips to visit them and spend time with them before returning for the fall.

7. Go to a Carnival/Boardwalk

Carnivals and boardwalks are staples of every summer television show or movie. If the main character doesn't win his or her love interest a stuffed animal, is it really a cheesy rom-com? Anyway, I do not think they are too cliche to enjoy.

8. Have a Bonfire

Bonfires are another icon of summer. Gather a group of friends around a firepit and make as many s'mores as your stomach can handle!

9. Travel

This term is broad because it could mean a million things. Fly to Europe? Yeah! Spend a week at a resort in Florida? Do it! Drive down the road and stay at a hotel for a few nights to get away? Yes! Do what will give you an escape from your daily routine.

10. Read More Often

Personally, I find reading to be more enjoyable when I can do it while lying on a chair under the bright sun. Last summer, I read the entire Harry Potter series. Let's see what I can accomplish this time around.

11. Have a Spa Day

Go all out. Get a facial, complete with some cucumber slices over the eyes. Make sure you take a day to completely treat yourself. Summer is supposed to be a relaxing time!

12. Spend the Day Outside

The beauty of summer is how beautiful the world around you looks, even during those summer storms. Utilize these days of seemingly perfect weather and spend them outside.

I cannot wait for summer to come. As I am moping from underneath my blanket, I am imagining myself lying on a beach with a good book. Thankfully, though, those warm days are only a few weeks away. I just have to survive finals first...