I love coming home for summer and being able to travel and visit different places, but when I really think about it, I have plenty to do right here at home on the South Side of Chicago. Even though I complain about being bored and having nothing to do, I always seem to find something fun to do and someone great to do it with right here at home.

1. ICE CREAM!

Whether it’s Rainbow Cone or Plush Horse, we’ve got the best ice-cream right near us. So whenever our sweet tooth comes calling, we have somewhere right around the corner to grab a scoop (or two).

2. Go to the ‘burbs for a hike, or even tour the neighborhood.

We’re a hop and skip away from any forest preserve, whether it’s Bachelor’s Grove or Swallow Cliff, we’ve got beautiful trails right at our finger tips. And if you’d rather stay local, there’s the paths, like the Dan Ryan Woods, who doesn't love the sound of beer cans crunching beneath their feet on a lovely summer afternoon? (Kidding but not kidding).

3. Sports Games.

Who doesn't love a good baseball game? Especially when it’s the Chicago White Sox (and whoever plays the cubs).

4. Drink, Drank, Drunk.

Ahhh good ole’ Western Avenue. If you're from the South Side you know exactly what I’m talking about. Whether it’s the beer garden at Cork & Kerry or a night spent in Blackthorn, we’ve got the best bars around. But be prepared to see 20 plus people from high school.

5. Sports Leagues.

If you're from the South Side and not in a softball league, then you know plenty of people who are, or even sand volleyball. They’re a great way to show your competitive side and hangout with a bunch of friends and have an excuse to go out and let loose on a week night.

6. EAT.

Nothing I miss more when I’m away at school that Chicago food, whether it’s pizza from Milano’s or Palermo’s, or Mr. Sub and Pop’s, we’ve got the best food choices around. A night spent in La Fiesta’s patio sipping on margaritas and eating tacos with your friends is a night spent right.

7. Concerts.

We’re a short train ride away from any venue in downtown Chicago, or even the amphitheater in Tinley (that has a new name every month). So take advantage of the amazing acts that come to town. Whether it’s a free concert in Millennium Park on Monday evenings or lawn seats in Tinley, we’re blessed when it comes to concerts.

8. Spend time with family.

Coming home for summer means plenty of quality time with family. Whether it be a day spent in the backyard or family parties with your first, second, and third cousins (I’m Irish, that’s just how we do things) spending time with my family is one of my favorite parts of being on the South Side.

9. Just relax and soak it all in.

Summer is a time to sit back and take a load off. The South Side of Chicago is one of the best places in the world and I wouldn't have wanted to be raised anywhere else. I’ve got a beautiful home, awesome friends, and family that has my back no matter what. Even though sometimes I feel like there is nothing to do here, I always seem to find something to entertain myself with. I wouldn't trade living on the South Side for anything, I’m definitely blessed to be able to call this place home.