With the first day of summer being 56 days away, I've been thinking about all the reasons why I can't wait for it to begin. Summer is my favorite season of the year and being from the North Country, I realize it's one that is all too short. Nonetheless, it's the most exciting time of the year. There's so much more to explore and do in the world — when the world isn't frozen, that is. Summer is a time of growth, exploration and, most importantly, relaxation. Many of you will travel far and wide on your summer excursions, and some will enjoy the comforts of home. Until the painstaking long arrival of summer, here's a few reasons why I just can't wait.

1. Getting out there.

Hiking the 46 peaks (and being a part of the 46ers club) of the Adirondacks is one big challenge that I hope to tackle with my wife this summer. The Adirondack Park has so many beautiful vistas to take in when you scale many of the peaks of its many mountains. With hard work and determination, I hope to surmount the summit of these mighty mountains.

2. Fishing

Fishing is one of my all-time favorite activities during the summer. There's almost nothing better than just getting out on the water, relaxing and enjoying nature. Even if you never get a bite on your fishing line, the experience is still worth it. Fishing is also a great time to bond with your bros. It's always a great time to open up a cold one and talk about life.

3. Barbecuing for days

You know it's summer when you walk outside and smell the succulent scent of BBQ sauce and meat cooking on the grill. Whether it's burgers, hotdogs, steaks, ribs, kabobs, chicken or corn on the cob grilling, it's the true staple of summertime.

4. Outdoor sports

From backyard football to street hockey, summer opens up opportunities for outdoor activity. With the cold of winter and the rain of spring behind, we look to the basketball court, the tennis court or the golf course for summertime fun. Running and biking are easier and more enjoyable with the warmth and brightness of the sun beating down on us.

5. The beach

Going to the beach is the pinnacle of summer fun. Who's not at the beach during the sunny summer months? I know that I intend to be there this summer. Whether it be the majestic ocean, a campsite lake or a running river, we all have a supreme desire to be in the water. The feeling of cool water on a hot summer day is so incredibly soothing. The sand between your toes when you run or jump in the water creates a euphoric sensation of enjoyment. The warmth of the sun tanning your skin while you lay there lathered in sun tan lotion. You can never go wrong with a day at the beach.

6. Boating/Sailing

Being out on the water is such a great time. Feeling the wind and waves whip by you. Feeling the splash of the water on your skin when the boat goes through a wave. Being on the water is a blast.

7. Bonfires

On summer nights, it's nice to just relax around a warm fire. Cooking s'mores and telling stories is always a great way to pass time in the summer months. Gathering around a bonfire at a party is great way to spend the summer.

8. Relaxing outdoors

Summer is the ultimate time to just relax and live in the moment. Taking naps outside is such a relaxing thing to do on warm sunny days. Tanning, getting into a new book or just being outside enjoying nature. Going for walks or jogging is a great way to relax and release tension pent up from long winters and semesters of work. Having a picnic is a fun way to take in the summer. Basically just go outside.

9. Events

Farmers markets, craft shows, fairs, festivals and concerts make the summertime full of fun and excitement. This summer, I hope attend a few concerts and this week I am going to participate in a Color Run 5K with my wife.

10. Summer Olympics

The Summer Olympics are a great distraction from the humdrum, day-to-day news and especially the political banter driving people against one another. The Olympics are a time of realizing we're more than just a country and its political distractions. We are one world, one people and one hope for the future.