There is nothing better than spending a hot summer day with your best friends. Driving in one of our cars all together with the windows rolled down, our hair blowing, our freshly sun-kissed skin glowing and a classic summer song like What I Got by Sublime playing full blast. Even the smell of sunscreen mixed with everything else summer makes me happy. It’s an unexplainable feeling that makes you think it’s too good to be true!

We laugh at each other when we try to sing as loud as we can to the tunes pumping on our iPods. All you can do is smile and bop around to the music because you feel so carefree—like nothing could ruin this moment. During the times that you aren’t at your summer job, you try to fit in as much fun as you can. Wake up late, but not too late or else you waste the day. You go to the beach with your friends, chill outside, get smoothies and maybe go to the mall every so often. At night you BBQ, go to a movie and for dessert, Dairy Queen makes a great hangout spot. Then, since you can stay out late, you have bonfires with your friends and roast marshmallows, and just spend time at someone’s house for a while. Some people travel, some go to sleep-away camp, but the ones who stay home can have just as much fun as the ones who leave their regular surroundings to experience something different and exciting. It really is the best time of the year.

With so much stuff happening all over the place, it’s easy to find things to do without spending a ton—which is great if you’re trying to save up the money you are earning from your summer job. For example, I plan on going to free concerts and outside movies in New York City this summer. Hopefully they won’t turn out like the free Drake and Hanson concert on June 15! (I happened to be right next to all the violence at the concert—yikes!)

Summertime has some kind of magic to it. People are willing to do things they normally aren’t comfortable doing. We gain confidence, strive to find adventure and are simply happier. It’s scientifically proven! Why do you think summer flings exist?! Why do you hear about that one cute boy that your friend spent her whole trip to Cancun with?! Everyone comes back to school in the fall with a slew of stories ready to be shared. Yeah, sometimes so much free time can get a bit boring, but I like to take advantage of my boredom because during the year I have no time to be bored. There is always something going on somewhere; it’s a matter of finding it.

There is so much time to make this summer a great one. Be adventurous! I want to hear ALL about any stories you have this summer—so leave a comment below to tell me about your experiences!! Let’s make this summer AMAZING!