Summer is a magical and nostalgic season. Everything seems to have finally bloomed and continues to grow with the temperature. Everywhere you go, the sounds of birds chirping and children laughing lifts your spirit. Or maybe your idea of a perfect summer is staying inside and doodling away, a fresh bowl of fruit by your side. It’s so easy to get caught up in the freedom and excitement that comes with summer, that it always feels like it is ripped from your grasp too quickly. The start of the school year and cooler weather can be quite the downer, but it doesn’t have to be! Summer is my favorite season, and I am going to give you some of my personal tips on how to conquer the post-summertime blues.

The first thing to remember is that change and routine isn’t always a bad thing. If you’re like me, you probably like to do things on your own terms and dislike the “grind” of an everyday school week. The way to make this more enjoyable is to, firstly, get more organized. When you have everything in its place, it’s much more simple to get school work done in a timely manner and have more time for other activities. Joining clubs, sports, or anything else that interests you helps you look forward to things during the week and keeps things new every day. Getting started on new goals keeps you focused and helps you better yourself as a person. Think of what you wished to accomplish over the summer, and try to accomplish it during the school year! Trust me, having a project in mind is a wonderful thing.

There are many fun things to do in autumn. Get together with friends or spend time with family. Go for a walk and enjoy the fresh breeze. Go see a scary movie. Borrow a book from the library. Bring out your cozy sweaters. Discover new music. (Check out the monthly playlist!) Learn to cook some yummy fall foods. Start a new Netflix or television series. (The greatest shows return in the fall!) Maybe even see a play or musical. Most of all, just create memories and make the most out of your days. Personally, whenever I need some inspiration or if I’m just bored, I find some time out of my day to sit by my window and write in my journal. Something as simple as this improves your mood and relieves anxiety.

There are many local events that offer fun ways to stay busy. At the end of September, Barbeque on the River takes place. In October, it can be exciting to break in the Fall / Halloween season with a trip to a haunted house or scream park, such as Talon Falls. If that isn’t your thing, you can always go to a pumpkin patch instead and bring one home to carve later!

I hope these tips help you feel better about transitioning into the new season. Remember, the little things go a long way. Also, don’t just wait for the weekend to have fun. Get outdoors after school and enjoy the nice weather while it lasts, because before you know it, winter will be upon us!