Ladies and gentlemen, it’s almost that time of year again. That’s right! The countdown to the end of the school year! We can all agree with Noah Suris ‘17 who is “really excited to have some time off!”
For many of us, the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about Spring break is sleep. Spring break, for most, is generally one whole week of waking up at noon, going to bed late, and not opening up a single textbook. Spring break marks less than 45 school days until graduation and some of us cannot wait to get an early start on the two month vacation.
Spring break is a cultural complex that has an abundance of different meanings for all different people. It could mean anything from hours of SAT Prep to a Netflix marathon. If you’re stuck in Basking Ridge due to sports or character building, have no fear! There are tons of activities to partake in, even in a small town suburb like Good Ole Basking Ridge.
Bean Boozled
Currently taking the Twitterverse by storm, “Bean Boozled” is the newest fad that brings out the masochist in all of us. Pick up a box at Walmart, Learning Express, or on Amazon.com and prepare yourself. Ever thought you could tell the difference between Toothpaste and Berry Blue jellybeans? How about Caramel Corn or Moldy Cheese? This is your chance to test your skills! There is even a specialized Harry Potter edition for all the most dedicated fans. “Bean Boozled” is here to prove that fair is foul and foul is fair.
(V)Blog
In today’s world, we are utterly obsessed with remembering and taking note of our pasts. Whether seeing our exact location one year ago on Timehop or commemorating a trip to the City on Instagram, we all use technology to memorialize our lives. What better way to do that than with a Blog or Vlog? When given the time, not only is this a form of therapeutic expression, but it’s also a fantastic way to look back on what we’ve learned and how we’ve changed. And who knows – maybe you’ll find the whole world agreeing with you!
The Bounce Factory
Located at 150 Mt. Bethel Road in Warren, NJ, the Bounce Factory is a great place to bring a group of friends. With levels of laser tag and an enormous bounce area, you’re sure to have a great time.
Volunteer
It’s never too late to change someone’s life. Check out the local library, YMCA, and Fellowship Village for volunteer positions. Making money is great, but it’s the memories and the experience that will stay with you to the end.
Travel to New York City
We can all agree that it’s never a bad time to suffer from the stimulating Stendhal syndrome. If you’re interested in the Arts, make sure to check out the Bjork exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art, the Asian Art Centennial at the Metropolitan Museum, or learn about time travel at the American Museum of Natural History. There are also a handful of concerts that are highly recommended such as The Mowgli’s (April 16), Walk the Moon (April 14 and 15), OK Go (April 11th) and Bleachers (April 9th) at the Bowery. In the words of Nicole Conca ‘16, “I can’t wait to see Walk the Moon! ‘Shut Up and Dance’ is my favorite song!”
Get a Jump Start on the New You
Though it may be a little too early to take a day trip to the beach, 90 degree weather is just around the corner. Take the week off to get back into shape. Go for a run. Go for a bike ride. Try a new recipe on Pinterest. Get your wardrobe ready. Take a trip to the Bridgewater or Short Hills Mall and see what they have to offer. Try some new stores such as Garage and Lovely Leggs to liven up your style. And outlet malls such as Jersey Gardens and Jersey Shore Premium Outlets always have amazing deals.
Where do you see yourself this Spring Break? As cliché as it sounds, life begins outside of your comfort zone. So go out there, be awkward and uncomfortable, and try something you never have before that you know will make you a better person. While you may have the urge to stay in and watch Netflix, take this week to truly dedicate to yourself and learn something new. Find something to Instagram, a story to share, and begin a journey that may lead you for the rest of your life.