UNITED STATES—In a few short days, summer will officially kick-off in my eyes because Memorial Day and the official start of grill season is underway. Summer brings so many great things and bad things at the same time. For starters, everyone wants to have that beach body in tip top shape. That means you might have been in doors all summer, but if you’re really looking to showcase that physique, now is the time to REALLY get your health into play.

How can you start? Watch what you eat. You want to be healthy; you have to actively take the steps to make it happen. It’s not all about what you put in your body, but it’s about exercising on a consistent basis. Yes, we have had conversations about exercising many times, but consistency is key! Do what you can with the time that you have, but stay consistent with it. If you can do 4-5 days a week, 30 minutes to an hour, there is no excuse not to have some sort of physical activity.

On top of that, don’t expect that toned six-pack, or toned tummy to transpire overnight. The celebrities might tot it, but trust me they have plenty of help to do it along the way. You don’t go to sleep on Monday with a flabby tummy and wake up with rock solid abs on Tuesday. On top of that, don’t starve or deprive yourself to attain the perfect body. There is no such thing, but as long as you’re comfortable in your skin that is what matters most.

When it comes to the kiddies, school is mere weeks away from being out and it’s time for summer jobs, outdoor activities and summer vacations. I use to be a proponent of school going year round, but I know it’s vital for kids, rather you’re talking about teens or young adults to have a bit of a break from the books and homework. Give that body the opportunity to rejuvenate and have a bit of fun at the same time. If you work hard you should be able to play hard, but don’t do anything that you will regret later on in life.

Grilling season, there is something about cooking food outdoors and on the grill that is unlike any other season of the year. I mean I loved a grilled hotdog, burger or steak. The same can be said for a variety of fruits and veggies as well. Making the situation more fun is the notion that you get outdoors. You don’t have to slave in that kitchen when it’s hot as hell. That is one thing people have learned about me: when it’s hot I don’t cook at least not in doors.

The icing on the cake is that it’s time to vacation. Many people tend to vacation during the summer months, as we tend to have more time off. With that being said it leads to spending more time with family. Sometimes those you can tolerate, and at times those who you cannot stand. With that being said, plan to visit a destination that you’ve never seen before. I’m a firm believer that an actual vacation involves going to a place that you’ve never visited before. Explore the world, learn about new cultures, people and life, and splurge in the process. If you vacation, you should not have limits on where you go and what you spend your money on.

The key about taking a vacation is that you create memories with your family, memories that will last a lifetime. Last thing I want to point out is that summer ushers in a perfect time for bargains. When I say bargains, I’m referring to getting your hands on all those nifty winter items that are currently out of style that you might need when summer comes to an end. It’s only for a short three months, so bask in all the beauty and fun that summer brings us, for many of us we don’t see the summer weather and the great outdoors 365 days a year.

Written By Kelsey Thomas