Ah, summer. The season that most (all) people look forward to all year. Especially after the confusing swinter (summer/winter) we had this year, a nice, solid, warm summer is much-needed. Nice weather isn’t good enough, though. The summer has a tendency of going by fast, so you can’t let it go by without taking full advantage of the wonderful weather.

Though summer is only beginning, I decided I didn’t want to waste one day of my summer. I want to make sure I have a well-rested and super fun summer before I have to return to college for another draining semester. To ensure I keep to my word, I decided to make a list. I know, it’s kind of corny, but I believe it can help!

Everyone out there reading this, whether you are young, old or in between, make a list of everything you want to do this summer. It can include things you have wanted to do all year, but never got around to. It could involve trying new things that might scare you a little. It could be a list of traditions you do every summer. Whatever it is, write it down! Write down those ideas, and make it a goal sheet. By the end of the summer, you should have everything on your list, or at least most of the items, crossed off. The list will give you motivation to actually get up and do something so you don’t find yourself sitting on the couch watching TV all day -- unless that’s on your list, in which case, go for it!

The list can also be a helpful reminder on those days when your brain is blanking out on you. If you wake up in the morning and can’t decide what to do with the day, look at your list! Or, if you are hanging out with friends and you guys can’t decide on something to do, check the list! This could be your blessing in disguise.

To give you ideas for things to put on your list, here are some of the activities on my list!

-Visit the Bronx Zoo

-Make homemade pizza

-Have a camp out

-Try wake-boarding

-Read at least five books

-Have a picnic in a park

-Save half of everything I earn

-Go to a concert

-Clean out my room

-Go mini golfing

-Start a new TV series

-Go to Misquamicut Beach in Rhode Island

Think of it like a bucket list, but one that you are trying to complete by the end of the summer. It should be fun! Don’t make it a chore list, but it can certainly be used as a motivator if you know you have to get something done. The list is there to make sure you are enjoying your summer. It doesn’t matter how big or little the activity is. You can put something as crazy as “go skydiving” or something as simple as “make dinner for my family.” Just make sure you are doing something! When September rolls around, you will be able to tell people all about the things you did this summer. So go make a list that meets your needs this summer. Don’t forget to make it fun, and start crossing off activities!