keeping it cool

Creazilla

One of the many fun things people look forward to over the summer is going to waterparks and the pool. Emerson Sims, junior, said that they find it difficult to stay cool during the summer. Going swimming is one of the easiest ways to stay cool during the brutal summer heat in Virginia. There are plenty of great waterparks and pools to go visit during this break that will keep you cool, such as Water Country USA, Curtis Memorial Park and Aquia Creek. Water Country, opening on May 13, is roughly an hour and 50 minutes from Mountain View and ticket prices start at $49.99. Curtis Memorial Park is one of the closer options, which is around 10 minutes from Mountain View, and entrance to the Mark Lenzi Pool is only $5 per person. It will open on May 28 (Memorial Day), and remain open until August 8 (Labor Day). Lastly, Aquia Creek is 46 minutes away, open daily, and it’s $4 per person beginning on May 28, running through August 8.

Are you a fan of fruits? Many people have lots of cold, fresh fruits during this time of the year, especially watermelon and peaches. There are many different ways to indulge in fresh fruits like making popsicles, smoothies, fresh fruit bowls or even eating them plain. You don’t have to make just fruit popsicles though, you can also make, or buy, many other types of popsicles and smoothies at the store or at home. There are plenty of really cool recipes but Jessica Gavins, on jessicagavin.com, has some awesome popsicle, smoothie and fruit bowl recipes for you to try out this summer. Taelyn Canty, junior, said eating popsicles will be her choice to stay cool this summer. Not only are these recipes a cool choice, but they’re a healthy choice too.

If you’re not as interested in going out or eating, you can always drink plenty of water. Drinking water before summer begins is a great way to maintain hydration and that cool feeling during the summer. Healthdirect.com recommends that 13-18 year olds should try and drink anywhere between 5 and 8 cups of water every day, and if you do more than that, you’re on the right track. Hot summer heats can affect your hydration levels, so it is important to drink plenty of water so that you can avoid dehydration. In addition to that, wearing light clothing is perfect for the heat here in Virginia. Mrs. Stahl, English 11 teacher, mentioned that she will stick to drinking plenty of water and wearing lightweight clothes to beat the heat. Sticking to breathable fabric can definitely help you maintain that cool feeling you’re looking for during the summer. The combination of water and light clothes can save you from burning up like a torch.