Beneath the thumb of fleeting Summer, it is hard to not become desperate to end it with a bang, something sun-filled to become a sweet memory of longer days. But it can be difficult to come up with ideas of just how to spend these last couple of oh-so-romantic days. But with the end of the summer comes the beginning of the returning era of stress and haste. With that in mind, here are some suggestions for activities that neatly balance out the need for one last call and the rush of Fall returning.
1. Spend an entire day outdoors.
It's a familiar feeling to all of us--longingly staring out the window mid-lecture, wishing we were anywhere but in class. Find a nice spot outdoors, whether it's the beach or even just your own backyard. Maybe bring a book and delve into one last summer read. Bonus points if you leave your phone inside.
2. Have a classic movie marathon.
Remember all those old films your grandparents used to try to get you to watch? Take advantage of the summer storms one afternoon and watch some. Need some extra recommendations? My personal favorite picks are Singing in The Rain, Thelma and Louise, The Graduate, and Gone With The Wind.
3. Bake something from scratch.
Sometimes it's nice to just lose yourself in the details of following a recipe. It's a fun way to take your mind off of everything else. Plus you'll have something delicious to show for it!
4. Do something special for your pet.
In a few weeks, you'll be looking at pictures of them wishing you could snuggle them up in your lap. Take this opportunity to do something nice for them, whether that's buying your cat a new toy, or taking your dog for a drive around town.
5. Reorganize some (or all) of your bedroom at home.
When you come back to visit, it will feel so much more serene to be in a clean environment. Plus you'll always know where everything is, which makes for quick drop-offs and pick-ups between trips home.
6. Cook dinner for your family.
Show them how much you've loved being home with them this summer, and find the way to their hearts through their stomachs. Bonus tip for extra fun: use an old family favorite recipe and put your own spin on it!
7. Find your new binge watch show.
By researching and reading about what very well may become your new favorite show, you'll build up your anticipation and excitement to watch it. This will make those evenings after class, when you settle in to relax, all that much more enjoyable!
8. Make a happy playlist.
College is hard, and sometimes we all need a little pick-me-up mood booster. When coffee just isn't doing the trick, it will help to have a playlist of uplifting jams to get you going again.
9. Find a new favorite local spot in your hometown.
A new happy place, if you will. When you're away at school and missing home, you can look forward to all of the new memories you'll make in your local hideout.
10. Make a list of happy hometown memories to turn to on those fall days when you'll miss them the most.
Even if you love your life in college, there will always be days when you're missing home a little extra.
