Summer Fun Ideas

With summer approaching, and approaching fast, there's going to be a much bigger need of things to do. And if you're anything like me, doing the same old just won't cut it like it once did. So here's a list of simple, general ideas you can try out that should be available in most places:

• Museums
• Dance lessons
• Find new parks to explore
• Try those little "Mom & Pop" restaurants you've always wondered about
• Research a new hobby and grab some friends to try it out with you
• Plan a trip to somewhere dark and go star gazing
• Go for a walk somewhere new and take in the scenery
• Wake up early to find the best spot to watch the sun rise
• Go to a carnival
• Research different festivals in the area and go enjoy with some friends

Keep an open mind, grab some friends who do the same and start your summer off right with some new fun!

Summer Life

It's the summer for everyone! Minus those who made the sad decision to take summer classes, of course. This is about the second week we've had great weather, so what better way to celebrate? Hit the beach! I admit, I am usually not one for the beach...don't get me wrong, I love seeing that picturesque sunset illuminating the blue water as it pushes up against the sand...but I am not down for the mosquitoes, beaming sunlight, and horrid allergies. However, you will still find my yellow a** frolicking in the grass of a sandy beach!

For three days straight last week, my buddies and I hit Stoney Creek up (nice little spot in Shelby Township if you're ever around these parts). It was a great time each day. Not too hot, not too cold; footballs; frisbees; and cold drinks. Fortunately at Stoney, there are not many cops around, so you can be left to your fun, but still be smart about it. We only had about five of us each visit, but it was still a good time because there were quite a bit of other people there. Although it looked like a lot of slutty, immature, hipster high school kids, we got some good laughs out of it. So get off of your a**, grab some friends, and go live that beach life this summer!

Get It Right, Get It Tight

Summer is definitely upon us. We are getting the hints of warm, even hot weather; more rain, as opposed to snow; and just more sunny days in general. But what does all that really mean? Get that body right! What's really one of the best aspects of the Summer season? Seeing some sexy bodies! Whether you're a man or woman, you expect to have eye candy wherever you go during these hot months. April and May is your time to make this hot body happen, unless you're one of those over-achieving people who really work out consistently throughout the whole year...losers. No, really that is the best way to do it, but for those who slack off (me), there are simple, yet not all that easy ways in getting your body right by summertime. Beaches, pool parties, outdoor sports, outdoor tanning, water parks, summer love...having a great body makes all that 10 times better. Why? Because you look great doing it! And although it'll feel good knowing that that hot girl or sexy guy keeps checking you out, you'll ultimately feel better about yourself. Nice abs, hard calves, toned arms, chest muscles are not that hard to achieve. It's as simple as CONSISTENT trips to the gym or you can even convert everyday things in your house into workout equipment.
Here are some simple, "short-cuts" to achieving a better body by the Summer. But remember, although these are somewhat easier exercises, you have to full out do them on a regular basis.

Abs: simple workouts you can do at home to get a great looking abdomen - 4pack, 6pack, V-cuts

Legs: simple workouts you can do at home to tone your legs and build muscle - Calves, Thighs, Hamstrings

Chest: these chest exercises include workouts you can do at home. Some can be executed with just your body, others will need dumbbells, or something of the sort

Arms: Triceps - at home exercises with no equipment
Biceps - most of these exercises will require weights of some sort
Forearms - these exercises will involve the use of dumbbells or similar weights to build muscle

Now remember, only you know your body so don't push yourself too far. Push yourself so you will do it, but never overdo it. Consistently combining these workouts will have your body looking A1 for the Summer.

Summer Essentials: Ocular Protection

Stunnas, shades, sunglasses, frames, hater blockas: Whatever you call them, they're an important part of Summer. Whether you're using them solely as an accessory, or to ward off the harmful rays of the sun, you're gonna want to look good. Here's a short list to help you pick out the right Sunglasses for your summer

1. First and foremost white frames are a no-no. Know who wears white frames? Douchebags and jack-asses, that's who. Nobody looks good when wearing white frames. Trust me
2. Lenses tinted any color other than black make you look like you're on your way to play beach volleyball. So steer clear, unless you want to look like this guy.
3. Mirrored lenses are nice. They let you see out and no one can see in. They're also helpful for times when you can't find a mirror. This guy knows wassup.
4. Aviators are cool. Always have been, always will be.
5. Only want one pair of shades to go with everything? Then pick up a pair with black frames and black lenses. All black everything.
6. Apart from looking good and good on you, they should be comfortable. Don't buy anything too small or too big. People can tell that they don't fit and you''ll look silly.

Alright, now you know a few things to remember when buying sunglasses for the summer. Grab me a pair while you're out.

Tips:

Don't worry about getting designer frames. Some of the nicest shades I've seen have been some of the cheapest also.

If you do have the cash to spend to cop a nice designer pair, protect them. If you take care of them, they'll take care of you.

Don't wear your glasses inside or at night. You'll look silly.

Please don't buy the comically big shades that cover most of your face. Nothing wrong with bigger glasses, but if I can only see your hair and chin, then we've got a problem

Summer Essentials: The Cookout

Summer is almost upon us! Which means it's time to start planning your cookouts! I decided to put together a list of all the things you'll need to make your cookouts perfect. Check it out

1. Food- Obviously you're gonna need food. Simple things like hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and chicken. These are all easy to cook and affordable. Don't worry about steaks and shit. Unless you got it like that, then of course, worry about steaks and shit. Oh, you're gonna need potato salad and/or a pasta salad too. Side dishes are a must
2. Grill- Two choices Gas or Charcoal? Gas is easier to use, it starts faster, and maintains heat better. However the propane tanks can be a bit pricey. Ask anybody and you'll hear Charcoal tastes WAY better, but it's takes a awhile to get started, can cook food unevenly, and requires you to watch the food closer. Real men use Charcoal though.
3. Drinks- It's hot, maybe humid, so you're gonna need a few refreshing beverages for your guests. I'm a fan of lemonade (Simply being the best) but you could also try other drinks. Limeade is good and comes in a variety of flavors, fruit punch is a crowd pleaser, and homemade punches are nice too. If you're gonna be serving alcohol, beer is great or make a big batch of a mixed drink for people to sip on.
4. Music- A cookout is basically the toned down version of a house party. It'll show you a good time, but it won't get too crazy. Your music should get that across. Don't play shit like "Shots"-LMFAO, instead go for something up tempo but laid back. You want your guest to relax but not fall asleep. Throwback jams are ALWAYS welcome at a cookout. So breakout your faves
5. The Guest List- The final and perhaps most important item on the list is who you're actually inviting to this lil shindig. Known party poopers should be left at home. They'll bring down the mood and ruin someone else's time. Don't bring the guy who's gonna eat all the food, or the chick who's gonna be on her phone the whole time. The point of these things is for everyone to enjoy themselves, so invite the right guests!

If everything goes right, a daytime cookout could definitely turn into a nighttime house party. Just make all the necessary preparations and you should be fine. Have fun!

Tips:

Can't afford to buy everything for a cookout? Well ask your guests to bring supplies for the party, food, drinks, plastic plates, etc. They shouldn't mind as long as you approach them correctly.

A few people you want to/should invite but they might ruin a good time? Talk to them before hand and explain that their past behavior has offended some so be cool at the party.