As school wraps up, students get antsy in anticipation for summer. Especially with the warm weather, the year seems to be already over.  Kids stare out the window, doing anything but work. As we head into the summer months, I encourage everyone to get outside and try new things.

We all know how easy it is to sit inside with our windows closed and the television on. With thousands of shows on Netflix and the call of video games, it’s hard not to get addicted to technology. However, summer is the perfect opportunity to get active and make new memories.

Hiking, camping, and fishing are great options, especially in Montana. None of these outdoor activities have to be done far from home, and all open our eyes to the world that we have at our fingertips. Biking, swimming, and running are all great ways to stay in shape. Of course, working out isn’t for everyone, but even a quick cardio activity can make one healthier and happier.

Summer doesn’t have to be all about being active, either. Visiting the weekly Farmer’s Market, taking a road trip, or exploring locations around town are all great options.

The three short months that we have off from school go by quickly and are easily wasted. I’m not trying to motivate anyone to adopt a healthy lifestyle or pack their days with “fun” activities. However, we ought to take advantage of our free time; we are only young once, after all. This summer, I encourage you to remember that relaxation is good for the soul, but so are a few adventures.