Yes, it's that time of year when the college student is free of the binds of schoolwork. That part-time job down at Yogurt Shack is mindless and carefree, and raiding mom and dad's refrigerator is commonplace. That's right: it's glorious summer. But if that constant "time to catch up on sleeping" mindset is making you restless, maybe it's a good time to really get those summer juices flowing with some get-together ideas for you and your friends. Who needs alone time for book-reading and art museum tours when you could be doing that, and much more, in the company of your brilliant friends? Don't be bored this summer. Instead, try a few of these good ways to make it the perfect break from school.
Overnight Trip to Baghdad
One up the Commander-in-Chief and surprise the first infantry division. Secret and covert operations are always fun, and best when a shared experience among friends. There's no better way to show your "Support Our Troops" spirit than to prepare a patriotic musical number and wave Old Glory from the side of your military-grade humvee. (Note: best if experienced over the Fourth of July weekend, to ensure optimal patriotic enthusiasm.)
The "I Miss My Childhood" Summer BBQ
Never had the entire circus swing by your house on your eighth birthday? Never got to ride the mini-ponies when you first got braces? This summer, make it up to yourself and celebrate childhood by making your own version of an animal and circus extravaganza. Try a backyard petting zoo, where friends can ride ponies and tour the aquarium of disowned goldfish from the state fair. Have a trustworthy adult fill in for the clown who only does "kiddie" parties. Make sure to include Kool-Aid, peanut butter & jelly Wonderbread sandwiches and a hefty supply of wine coolers for those unlucky adults who agreed to chaperone (aka your friends).
An Undiscovered State Tour
Remember back in high school when you and your friends sat back and wondered what South Dakota looked like? Well, here's your chance to find out. The nation's fourth most boring state (behind Wyoming, Idaho and North Dakota) has your name written all over it. Home to the Black Hills, Mt. Rushmore, and Mary Hart from "Entertainment Tonight," South Dakota is a state of "great faces" and "great places," according to www.travelsd.com. Why not drive on over and tell your friends that you were in Norm Van Brocklin's home state? They are sure to be insanely jealous.
Christmas in July
Ever wonder how the other hemisphere experiences Christmas in its warm environs? No? Well, try it anyway. Here's your chance to see what the Australians are doing come Dec. 25. Decorate a palm tree with St. Nick ornaments and twinkle lights, hang the stockings by the fire pit and leave out a cold margarita for Santa. White elephant gift exchanges are fun among friends and drawn-out, month-long celebrations of a commercialized holiday are a must. (Note: only acceptable if you receive double your weight in presents. Do not attempt fake holiday if it does not retain authenticity of the real one.)
House Un-warming Party
There can never be too many parties, and this one is no exception. With kids off to college, parents find it to be the best time for remodeling and demolition. With this in mind, this party is appropriate only for kids whose parents want total destruction. Ask your friends to come on down to a good old-fashioned tear-down-the-house party. The catch? They actually get to tear down the house. It'll minimize cost for your parents and maximizes fun for friends - power tools and accessories provided.
Real-Life Clue
For those who have ever played the board game Clue and loved it, this is for you. Why not create your own murder mystery in the company of your closest pals? Assign roles among friends and have someone be the dead guy. The host provides the lead pipe, revolver, rope and candlestick, as well as the oversized mansion and the clich?, contrived outfits. Just think: everyone's favorite board game about death, in real life! A map of secret passages around the house is a must.
The Karl Rove Spy Game
Be the next person to out an undercover C.I.A. agent, especially in the wake of the recent acquittal of Karl Rove in the Valerie Plame name-leak case. Scope out D.C., break into C.I.A. headquarters and feel a part of the insider action by ruining the life of one more innocent bystander. You and your friends can compete to see how many people you can remove from undercover status! Bonus points for TPing the home of Karl Rove or Dick Cheney or incarcerating tight-lipped reporters from The New York Times. Rumor has it Rove lives within walking distance of AU.
