All good things must come to an end. And sadly, school is approaching soon. This summer feels like it has gone by so quickly. But I did learn a few things while making the most of my summer.

1. Home is not a place, it's a feeling

We leave a piece of ourselves in different cities and different places around the world. I feel more "at home" when I am with a certain group of people than at my actual home. Home is the feeling I get when I can't stop smiling or laughing because I am filled with so much joy. It's the moments that I will remember for the rest of my life because my heart is so full.

2. Friendships take a lot of work

Whether it be friends from home or school, it's inevitable to have some trouble with people you are close with. It could be about small things or something huge. In the end, you deserve to be surrounded with positive and uplifting people that will support you in whatever may happen. Take some time to strengthen old friendships and make new ones. Find genuine people you want to go Pokemon hunting with late at night. But also, defend yourself if it is the right thing to do. Don't keep things in because you don't want to hurt their feelings. You have feelings too. Friends are suppose to be there when you need someone to vent to or tell them something exciting.

3. Relax, you deserve it

After a whole year of learning a million things, it's time for you to relax. You definitely deserve it. Sleep in till lunchtime. Make Spotify playlists all day. Binge-watch a new television show.

4. Re-evaluate your life

The summer is a great time to re-evaluate your life. You have about two months and a half to see what you want to improve in for the next year. It's never too late for self-improvement. Put yourself first. But also remember to put your mental health first as well.

5. Live for the small moments

It's not often that you aren't as busy. Take in the small moments in life. Journal more often. Go on solo adventures. Be excited about summer plans. Embrace the moments when you learn something new.

6. There are so many things to look forward to

There may be some things you didn't expect to happen at the beginning of the year. But good news will surprise you at the right moment. Maybe you'll get promoted at your job, see your favorite singer in concert, or maybe there is a big trip that you will be able to go at the end of the year. Be positive that everything will fall into place.

7. Half of the year has passed by

That moment when I realize that it is half way through the year is a little frightening. Part of me is saying that I haven't done anything yet and the other part is saying that I've done so much! Either way, be grateful for everything that has or will happen. If you feel like you haven't done anything then make some changes! Just because half of the year has passed, doesn't mean that you won't have time to make the rest of the year a memorable one.

8. We need less hate and more love in the world

It seems like I wake up to bad news every morning. It could be about a death of a celebrity or police brutality in America or terrorist attacks in other countries. It's very disheartening that we live in a world filled with so much hate considering that we are a generation that promotes love for all. We need to educate ourselves more on both sides of the arguments and help each other live another day.

9. Be more adventurous

The summer is basically the time when you can be the most adventurous. Put yourself out there. See parts of the city you haven't been before. Introduce yourself to people you typically wouldn't talk to. Get the tattoo you've been wanting for a while. Overcome fears. Find new hobbies.