The Stages of Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend is the official kick off of the summer, and with it just days away beach goers are getting ready to flock to the beaches of New Jersey, Fire Island, The Hamptons, etc. However MDW just a few short days away, it seems the certain struggles that come with every big beach weekend never seem to go away.

The last minute workouts

We literally just finished finals how were we supposed to get a "summer body" while we were stuck in the library crying? Whatever, put on a bikini and you have a bikini body.

Buying the perfect bathing suit

We're not sure when it became completely normal to pay over $100 for a bikini bottom that barely covered one butt cheek, but they're adorable and we have to have them. Style over comfort, beauty is pain, fashion over money.

Coordinating plans in the group chat

You need to figure out who's driving, who's supplying booze/food, make sure no one wears the same bikini, and everything in between.

When one of your friends cancels last minute

No one likes when a friend has to say no to plans on short notice, but what's even worse is when they're the one who volunteered to drive...

Packing for the weekend

I understand I will be wearing a bikini and sunglasses everyday, but I need options.

When the weather forecast says it's going to be cloudy one day

Seriously?! How are we supposed to get tan if it's going to be 71 AND CLOUDY WITH A 40% CHANCE OF RAIN!?!?

When you're ready to go and the trip begins

It's sunny, we have our bags, our food, and we're ready to tan.

And then you hit the terrible beach traffic

No matter how early you leave, or how great of time you're making, the closer you get to the shore the more traffic you will hit.

When you first get to the beach

We're here and we're ready. Nothing is going to ruin this weekend.

Entering the water for the first time

Time to pretend the water isn't freezing and your feet aren't getting cut up by shells, all while trying to time it perfectly so you don't run head first into a wave.

Letting your inner mermaid shine

You're dodging waves left and right, perfectly swimming under even the biggest of them. This is what you came for, the ocean.

And then a giant wave knocks you over

Is this it? Am I going to drown? I've definitely been underwater for way too long. Where is my top? Why is sand everywhere? Did everyone see that?

Working on the perfect tan

Spray as much tanning lotion as you can, get your book or music out, and remember to angle towards the sun at all times.

Going home and thinking your tan is amazing, but you're actually just burnt

Well this is embarrassing. Someone pass me the aloe vera.

When you're trying to get drunk in the most casual way possible

How can we properly sip our mojitos on a public beach without being severely judged...

When it's time to leave and go back to the real world

You'll be back next weekend, though.

Nothing is better than the beach or summer. Memorial Day Weekend is finally here, so get your tan on.