Even though it's technically still Winter, the past few days have felt like anything but. Here in the South, as soon as the first sign of warm weather makes itself known, most everyone ditches their Bean Boots and scarfs, opting instead for an old pair of Jacks and a sundress. As the weather warms up, the skies get clearer, music gets better, and life just seems a little more radiant. But if you're still not convinced, here are a few reasons why Summer is nothing short of magical:
1. Sunshine is good for the soul, and your mood.
I don’t know about you, but when the weather starts to warm up, the skies get clearer, and the gloomy clouds of Winter drift away, my mood instantly begins to lift. For those of us who suffer from seasonal depression, the winter months can often be tough—the days are shorter, it’s much colder, the gray skies can often contribute to a worsening attitude. However, when those first days of Spring make themselves known, a little bit of optimism is restored in our souls and the ability to stick out the lingering days of Winter gets just a little bit easier.
2. There is absolutely nothing better than blasting “Long Hot Summer” by Keith Urban while driving with the windows rolled down.
Don’t argue with me on this one—you know I’m right.
3. Whether you believe it or not, sunshine is a motivator.
Think of those rainy days where all you want to do is crawl back into bed and continue binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy. It seems great for a while, but let’s be real—I can only take so much of Meredith’s whining at one time. On the other hand, when it’s warm and sunny out, motivation is just a tad bit easier to come by. Mustering up the strength to crank out that last paper before spring break is still tough, don’t get me wrong, but it’s just a bit more enjoyable with a beautiful view in front of you.
4. You can go play outside!
Now, I’m not saying you have to go play hopscotch with your roomie, but embrace your inner child for a little while, put on your tennis shoes, and step outside of the library for an hour or so. Go for a walk or a run, ride your bike around campus, go hiking, or play Frisbee with some guys on the quad. Just go outside and in the words of Sheryl Crow, "Soak up the sun."
5. Flip Flops.
Don’t get me wrong, I love my scarfs and boots just as much as the next girl, but when warm weather hits, so does my need to pull out my Jack Rogers.
6. The Beach.
Salty air, sandy feet, and wavy hair. Need I say more?
7. Late Nights—and not the ones spent studying for your final the next day.
You know, the nights spent back home with your high school friends, out by the lake or a campfire, telling old stories and remembering old boyfriends? Yeah, those nights are special—hold on to those.
8. Cookouts
Memorial Day and The Fourth of July are meant for cookouts. Your dad and grandpa are manning the grill, your mom is in the kitchen, your younger siblings are running around doing god knows what, and you’re sitting at the table eating chips trying to explain to your grandma how a degree in Psychology is going to make you rich someday. Despite the chaos that is your family, summer holidays are best spent with the ones you love, including your dog of whom is running around outside with an American Flag bandanna tied to his neck.
9. Fewer responsibilities.
No classes, no midterms, no papers, and no waking up every day for your 8am! Summer, especially, is a time to take advantage of sleep, freedom, and freshly painted toenails. In a few years, you’ll have a job, kids, and housework to do, so enjoy these moments while you still can, because life slows down for no one.
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10. R&R
Warm weather equals summer time, and summer time equals relaxation. So read a book, take your little brother to the park, discover a new hobby, go to the movies, take a nap, cook with your grandma, or go to a baseball game with your dad. But whatever you decide to do, just enjoy it.
