Sunkissed Days and Starry Nights: A Guide to Making This Summer Your Own

By Chasalee Romero

As the final days of the semester begin to slip away and the long-awaited warmth of summer beckons, there’s an unmistakable buzz in the air—it’s that subtle shift in energy, as the rush of looming exams and deadlines fades, replaced by the promise of sun-drenched afternoons, spontaneous adventures and a well-earned break. It's that time of year when everything feels like a fresh start, and the possibilities seem endless. And with that fresh start comes the chance to embrace summer for what it really is—not about having every moment planned or doing it all. It’s about going with the flow, saying yes to what feels good and letting yourself just be. If you’ve been craving a summer that feels a little more meaningful, a little more alive—you’re in the right place.

Find the Magic in the Everyday

Not every memory needs to be epic. Sometimes, the best summer moments happen when you’re not trying to create anything at all. It’s the golden hour light streaming through your window. The sound of your favorite song filling a quiet room. The taste of a cold glass of lemonade on a hot afternoon.

Romanticizing the everyday doesn’t mean pretending life is perfect—it means noticing the beauty that’s already around you. Make time for solo coffee runs, long walks with no destination or mornings spent soaking up the sun. These are the small, quiet moments that often become the ones you’ll remember most.

Say Yes to the Unexpected

There’s something exciting about stepping into the unknown. Maybe it’s that road trip you’ve been dreaming about—the one that never quite made it out of the group chat. Or maybe it’s trying a new sport, signing up for a class that challenges you or simply saying “yes” to plans you’d normally overthink.

It doesn’t have to be a big leap. It just has to be different. Trying something you never have before—even if it’s small—can shift your perspective, open doors you didn’t expect, and give you stories you’ll tell for years.

Surround Yourself with Sunshine People

The people you spend your time with shape your summer just as much as the adventures you go on. Seek out connections that feel easy and energizing—the kind that makes you feel truly seen. Lean into friendships that inspire you and bring out the version of yourself you love most.

Whether it’s deepening a bond with someone new or reconnecting with old friends, make space for the kind of company that reminds you what it feels like to be fully yourself.

Slow Down & Soak It In

In a world that tells you to do more, summer is your excuse to do less and actually enjoy it. Sleep in. Read outside. Watch the sky change colors without reaching for your phone. Let your days be soft, unhurried, and open to whatever feels right.

You don’t need to be productive to have a meaningful summer. Sometimes, simply existing without a plan or deadline is exactly what your soul needs. Use this time to rest, reset, and reconnect with what brings you peace.

Make Memories, Not Just Posts

Of course, take the pictures—capture the sunsets, the outfits, the messy beach hair. But don’t forget to live in the moment, too. Some of the best memories can’t be posted, they’re felt. The kind of laughter that makes your stomach ache. The feeling of sand between your toes. The lightness that comes from being in good company.

Don’t let the pressure to document everything pull you out of the experience. The most unforgettable summers are the ones you carry in your body and heart, not just your camera roll.

This Summer, Make It Yours

You don’t have to earn it. You don’t need a packed calendar or a list of must-do adventures. All you really need is to be present. Let this be the season where you follow what sparks your curiosity, lean into what brings you joy, and say yes to whatever feels right.

Whether it’s calm or chaotic, spontaneous or slow, make it yours. Let this be the summer that feels like you.