Summer 2014... A Summer to Remember!

It is about that time during summer when college students find themselves at a standstill with what to do. Go to the beach? Eh, done it. Swim at the pool? Lame. Shopping? Too bad we're all broke. Even though most everything costs money these days, there are still plenty of FUN things to do to shake up that boring summer routine (and hopefully save you a few bucks, too). I have created the ULTIMATE summer bucket list for you to accomplish with all your friends this year! While some of these things may cost a few dubloons, don't let that stop you for making this summer one to remember.


Attend an outdoor concert. In many cities, there are plenty of little coffee shops and restaurants that have artists playing there for free! While it may cost you a few dollars for coffee or an appetizer, finding opportunities where you can enjoy live, local music is awesome. There are also concerts like Warped Tour that are completely outside, but beware: general admission tickets range from $30-$70 and the concert happens rain or shine.

Bake something. Get your girlfriends together and bake something that you've been dying to try from one of your many Pinterest boards! Have everyone bring one ingredient and all pitch in to bake, but more importantly eat, the yumminess that will ensue. I will definitely be making the delicious Nutella brownies featured below soon (recipe: Chewy Nutella Brownies/).

Go karaoke'ing. Many restaurants and bars have an open karaoke where you don't have to pay anything and get to make a complete fool of yourself for free!

Hit up a local theme park. I know not many people are lucky enough to have a theme park in their backyard, but for those that are, go! I would even buy an annual pass. Theme parks are so much fun with friends, a significant other, families, or whoever! It's a great place to scream your lungs out and just have some good ole American fun. There are also several lesser known theme parks (like Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia or Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California) throughout the country that aren't advertised outside of the local community. Hop on the internet and search around to be sure you're not missing out on one!

Set off fireworks. More good ole American fun! Just remember to be smart and be safe! Plus, there are always random firework shops that have crazy good deals on fireworks in bulk.

Shaving cream Twister. Target and Walmart usually have sales on the game. Then you can go to a dollar store to get the shaving cream. It's such a fun game on a summer day, just be sure to have a water hose nearby! Picture of shaving cream twister featured below.

Volunteer. Summer is one a time when many of us have fewer commitments and lots more free time. Why not use that extra time to go volunteer in a local pet or homeless shelter? Giving to those in need is one of the best feelings in the world and it is an awesome way to meet new people. Though it shouldn't be your only reason for volunteering, those hours also look great on resumes

CRAFT. CRAFT. and craft some more. Whether you craft for your big, little, future little, family, or someone else, crafting is always the answer! I'm actually working on a TON of crafts and DIY things for my future little this summer. You can see some of the ideas I'm getting for my crafts on our Little Problems Tumblr or Little Problems Pinterest. Be sure to submit your works of art to us and you may see them featured

S'mores. Who says you can't cook s'mores in the summer? They're THAT much better on a cool summer evening around a bonfire!

Go to a local carnival, fair, parade, or other event. Most cities have events for holidays or other events (I went to a festival called the Pungo Strawberry Fest a few weeks). Check local calendars for cities surrounding your area and find out what fun events they may be having!

Be sure to check out the next ten ways to make this summer one to remember which will be posted next week. If you have any awesome ideas or pictures of you doing things on your summer list please email any and all to me at kelseyj.litprobs@gmail.com and you just may be featured in the next article! Thanks for reading and HAPPY SUMMER!