It's hard to believe that Summer '16 is almost over. The month of August is around the corner, and with that comes "Back to School" season. Some of you will be heading off to your first year of college, others are getting excited to be upper class in their high schools, and some are preparing to begin at a new school. Regardless of what the next months will bring, I encourage each of you to embrace these last weeks of freedom and fun. So if you haven't already done these five things, now's the time!

1. Get to the Beach

You told yourself months ago that you would spend as much time at the beach as possible, so have you? If you have yet to dig your feet in the sand, and dip your toes in the sea, then what are you waiting for? Gather a group of friends, (ones that'll help pitch in for gas,) get your favorite snacks and bring your favorite activity, (volleyball, football, soccer ball, boogie board or ladder toss.) And don't forget to grab the tanning lotion (aka sunscreen!)

Extra tip: bring a portable speaker and an extra sheet to throw over all of your things so the birds don't get to it!

2. Plan a Road Trip

Once school starts again, it'll be back to planning things for the weekends. Although a short road trip can be done over a weekend, use this summer to take a longer drive to a destination you've been wanting to visit! Go see family or your friends and enjoy the scenery as you pass through towns you can stop and explore! Road trips make for the perfect photo ops, playlists and conversations.

3. Go to a Concert

It could be a concert at the local fair or one you've looked forward to for months! With so many great artists going on tour, you're sure to find one that'll get you excited. Go purchase the tickets right now! Because there's nothing better than spending the night singing your favorite songs and having a beautiful memory to look back on.

4. Finish a Book

You may have summer reading to complete, so if you haven't started... stop reading this article and go read your book! However, if you enjoy the comfort of a good book, then go to the nearest library or Barnes and Noble and pick one out that'll have you eager to turn the page. Trust me, enjoy the freedom of choosing/enjoying a book, because soon enough your teachers will be testing you on books you may not have chosen, or liked.

5. Soak under the Sun

Enjoy the sizzling sun before the cooler weather comes! (However, with this heat, you may be craving fall to come faster.) No spray tans or tanning beds required over summer, because a few minutes outside will do the trick. Embrace the pool days and barbecues, because wearing a cozy sweater, crushing leaves and being by a fire with your hot chocolate will come soon enough!