The Best Summer Ever!

Whatever you choose to do this summer you just want to unwind from the intense academic or work year you’ve had, and have some fun, right? And so you should! But we get so caught up in our plans that we forget to include safety and self-care in our activities. Whether you will be travelling out of town or staying close to home, below are a few safety and self-care tips I definitely use and think you will find helpful towards making your summer the best ever. As with anything, definitely double check the information and do your research.

Beat The Streets
1. Be aware of your surroundings, even your own neighborhood – you may know your ‘hood like the back of your hand but even if you are with someone, it still won’t hurt to let your eyes scan your block as you turn corners, or while crossing the street. Allow your eyes to sweep between cars, bushes, door steps, trees, etc. as you walk. Also if you sense someone walking behind you, give a casual glance over your shoulder, as you continue to walk; now they know you are aware of their presence.

One evening I got off the bus and as I walked down my block, I heard footsteps quicken behind me. Maintaining my pace (I believe when you run you invite a chase, make the person more angry and when or if they catch up to you the result is more fatal), I glanced over my shoulder at the person and they moved to the other side of the street.

 2. Change it up – when I ride the bus home I signal the bus to stop on a different corner every now and then. I am also lucky to have a flexible work schedule so I leave my building and return various hours any day of the week, thereby minimizing “surprise”!

3. No walking-text – I know it’s addicting and “conversations” get juicy but seriously, don’t text (or chat on your cell) while crossing the street or where there is public traffic. Stop somewhere safe to complete your texting. Remain aware of your surroundings while talking on your cell phone.


Wave Ur Hands In Tha Air (But Party Like You Really DO Care!)
1. Be alert – take note of emergency exits and security personnel at the club, party or gathering. So. if you see something that looks uncharacteristically out of place, or someone behaving in a manner that could harm others (or themselves), alert the host and any security personnel is available.


2. Drink responsibly –if alcoholic beverages are served do not drink to “get wasted” or “juiced” “crunked” or “####! up” An altered state of mind opens up opportunity for others to take advantage of you…or a more fatal result and, it just doesn’t look good.

All Aboard!
1. If you will be travelling out of town by public transportation, pay special attention to demonstrations or tutorials regarding safety. Hey, you never know – remembering (and doing) that one tiny-seemingly unimportant- thing the stewardess or conductor said or did could be the very thing that saves your life and others.


2. Trust “the hunch” – a few years ago I was exiting the subway in Manhattan and as I went through the turnstile I noticed a black attaché case stuffed between the high beam and ceiling. It looked out of place.  This is key, no matter how harmless something may seem.  Anyhow, there were a few cops chatting near the teller’s window and I told them. One of the cops, a woman, grabbed the bag from the ceiling and plopped it on the floor. Obviously it was harmless and she walked off with the bag. I did not feel stupid, in fact, I felt I did my job as a resident of this city. It’s not about looking good, it’s about doing what it takes to safely get to your destination…..and back.


How YOU Doin’?
1. Polish your swagga - your peers and others will “recognize” or respect you more when you hold yourself in esteem. Also, if someone in your crew is wildin’ out, check ‘em or let them know they can’t be with you – don’t join the negativity. Think about it: what kind of life do you really want? Constant drama and failure or support and success?


2. Your body, your temple – whether it’s a self-defense class, pilates or yoga class do something to strengthen and tone your body (and mind). It has been suggested to drink beverages that contain plenty of electrolytes after a workout because the beverages provide cellular hydration and replenish your energy. Also drink lots of water and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. (Consult your physician regarding the appropriate diet and excersie for you).


Avoid overly risky behavior, for example eating too many mixtures of food all at once, or racing down the street on your new motor bike…without a helmet.


3. Get Ready to Stay Ready – use your summer down time to prepare for college, i.e., take a SAT (Standardized Achievement Test) prep class, visit colleges, practice completing college applications, etc. Build your resume by doing volunteer work in your community or getting a meaningful job. If you are an aspiring performing artist keep studying, auditioning and practicing your craft. Just keep learning and preparing, while you have fun.


For the young ladies and young men who have children: All too often I hear the phrase "once you have children you no longer have a life" or “the fun days are over”. I completely disagree. Becoming a parent does not mean the fun is over. I repeat: your fun days are not over. You will, however, need to create a new lifestyle which includes building a strong network of support and a new crew of friends who share your interests. Furthermore, you should design a strong relationship with your child(ren) by spending as much time with them as possible – learning who they are and the potential gifts they will one day contribute to humanity. So yes, your level of responsibility increases in ways the rest of us who don’t have children can not fathom. BUT you still deserve to enjoy life and…. have the best summer ever!


Thank you for reading.   ~ Quelyn


Teen Task: 1. Give yourself a chance. 2. Once a week or daily, jot down your thoughts, ideas, concerns, pleasant moments in your journal. 3. Read everyday: a good novel or two, the paper, magazines, etc. Your ability to write more creatively, clearly and intelligently will increase! 4. Discuss this blog with your parents or with people you feel safe sharing your thoughts.




Copyright©2010 Quelyn Purdie