Summer is approaching and we all have a strong case of spring fever as is. But as for us Long Islanders, well, at the very least our condition is severe.
Because while we share the common dread of finals with our classmates and bond over late nights in the library, our distractions and daydreams are slightly different than our peers. Thoughts of sunbathing at the beach don't include a 40-minute drive. Our five minute cruise, scenic bike ride or leisurely stroll will meet us when we arrive home. And we'll find ourselves at the beach most days, not just on the weekends.
Countdowns to summer concerts get you through those long nights of studying. But when you are looking forward to a night at Nikon Jones Beach or taking the train to Atlantic Terminal for Barclays, you better bet it's that much more distracting. Even thoughts of tailgating at Jones alone can derail your bibliography.
Fantasies of home-cooked meals of course include our family favorites. But let's be honest, for the first two weeks it's going to be takeout. While surrounded with the best bagels and pizza the world can offer- why eat anything or anywhere else?
But who am I kidding? Screw the bagels and the pizza. Yup, I said the unthinkable. We all know the true king of summer and his name is Ralph- Ralph's Ices that is.
Whether you prefer Ralph's to Marvel, Magic Fountain to Krisch's, you know your long days at the beach will be met with a sweet ending. And thankfully, you're no longer the high-schooler behind the counter.
Summer vacations? Who needs them. Your whole summer is a vacation. Day trips to Fire Island or an evening in the city. How about a ride to Montauk or the Hamptons for kicks (and a stop at Splish Splash on the way!) ? No need for air fare when you have all this within driving distance.
And a trip to the wineries? Check! Whether you fancy an award-winning bottle of pinot or not, people of all ages can enjoy the picturesque landscape, free live music and overall ambiance of Long Island wine country. During the summertime, a trip out east to at least one of these is a must.
And you can't overlook the little things: bonfires on the sand, runs through all the state parks, walks on the Nautical Mile and dinner on the Long Beach boardwalk. It's enough to make you loose your mind- or at least your syllabi.
Your friends talk about the excitement of being home dying off after a week or so. But for us Long Islanders, if you're doing it right, home shouldn't be boring. Every day there's a new "it" food to try in the city. There are always new beaches to explore, parks you've never been two or towns to grab lunch in. We may be just an "island," but we are bigger than even we think. With so much to do and discover there is never a dull moment, especially set to backdrop of a few warm summer months.
