Most of us are very fond of the summertime. Summer means warmer weather, longer days and colder drinks. If you're a student, summer is the best time of year because you get a nice, long break from school. However, if you're working, summer is still just as great because after a long day at work it is nice to get out and enjoy the weather. Throughout the years, summer can have different meanings to people. When you're a kid, summer is completely different than it is when you're older. That doesn't mean summer isn't as great when you're older, it just means it's a little different.
When I was younger, my family belonged to the Lake Quassapaug Outing Club every summer. A lot of my favorite childhood memories took place there. I was fortunate enough growing up that my childhood best friend and cousins were also members of LQOC. The lake allowed us to do all the great things summer has to offer, such as swimming, eating ice cream and playing with friends. Another fond memory I have growing up is playing softball every summer. It was great to learn at a young age what it meant to be a part of a team and working with others. I also met my best friend while playing against her team. Back then, summer could not have gotten better in my eyes. I loved every second of it.
Now that I'm 21, my summers are completely different. But, that doesn't necessarily mean I enjoy summer any less. As my brother and I have gotten older, my parents found that we weren't spending as much time at the lake, so we stopped joining. I also no longer play summer softball. Summer now means most of my days are spent working. I enjoy working in the summer and making my own money. It means I get to do what I want, such as going to concerts, going on vacation and going shopping. Now, I won't lie and say that there aren't days where I find myself daydreaming about the lake, because I do have those days. When I was younger and had every day off, I found myself getting bored from time to time. However, when I get a day off, I enjoy it so much more and really take advantage of the nice weather.
If you have the right perspective and attitude you can still enjoy summer like you did when you were a kid. Your daily activities may have changed, but that's part of life. So, embrace the changes and the warm weather. When you get out of work, go buy yourself an ice cream, sit outside and take yourself back to when you were a kid.
