So your year is coming to a close, and you are going to have some free time on your hands. This is fantastic, and honestly, I am so ready for a break. With this break, what are your plans? Your summer bucket list? Do you have plans or are you trying to make the most of each day? I had a few things that I just had to do, and there a few of them are. Let us make this summer the best yet, and better yet, really relax after such a taxing year.

1. Backyard Camping

There is no better memory than pitching a tent in the backyard with my dad. Taking one or two nights to hang out and get some fresh air is great for you. Enjoying a night under the stars and waking up to the birds is one of the best things to get you out of your own head

2. Cook-outs

Whether it is with a few friends or your family, spending the afternoon fighting with a grill can be one of the most irritating experiences, regardless, it is so rewarding. On a nice summer day, having a hotdog with your family and friends is a great memory. Plus, you can get some fantastic pictures!

3. S'mores

No backyard fire pit? No problem! You can make one from some old bricks, or even get a pretty cheap one from any store, especially in the summer. S’mores is something that I cannot get enough of in the summer. Take a couple hours to make and enjoy the chocolate-y, marshmallow goodness.

4. A Bon Fire

It is very therapeutic to take all those papers from your past couple semesters and use it to start a fire. Even more so, seeing a small fire going is a great way to hang out on a summer night.

5. Bike Rides

As a kid, my summer was filled with bike rides through my neighborhood. As I have gotten older, I have found that I don’t ride my bike for fun anymore. A nice bike ride just to see the scenery is something I think we can all use after a long year.