Tag: summer

☀️ Squeeze the Sun: 10 Fun Ways to Celebrate the End of Summer 🍉

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Because it’s not over ‘til the sun sets on your last popsicle

Let’s face it—summer always flies by faster than your SPF melts off on a 90-degree day. One minute you’re chasing fireflies and grilling hot dogs, the next you’re dodging school supply aisles and wondering if it’s too soon to wear flannel (it is).

But before we swap lemonade for lattes, there’s still time to celebrate! The end of summer deserves a proper send-off—think one last hoorah, a farewell to flip-flops, and a toast to everything sun-soaked and carefree.

Here are 10 fun ways to celebrate the end of summer like the warm-weather legend you are:

🌅 1. Host a Sunset Picnic

Grab your favorite snacks, a cozy blanket, and some chilled drinks, then head to a park, beach, or even your backyard. There’s no better way to say goodbye to summer than watching it set in style.

🏖️ 2. Plan a Spontaneous Day Trip

Channel those last-minute summer vibes and hit up a nearby lake, beach, small town, or hiking trail. Blast your favorite road trip playlist and go full adventure mode.

🍔 3. Throw an “End of Summer” BBQ Bash

Fire up the grill, hang some string lights, and invite your favorite people over for one last backyard celebration. Bonus points for lawn games and watermelon slices.

🍧 4. Have an Ice Cream Crawl

Visit all your favorite local ice cream spots (or food trucks!) and sample as many flavors as possible. It’s basically a farewell tour for your taste buds.

🎬 5. Set Up an Outdoor Movie Night

Hang a sheet, grab a projector (or just use a laptop), and cue up a summer classic. Think The Sandlot, Dirty Dancing, or Mamma Mia. Popcorn is mandatory.

🍹 6. Make a Signature Summer Cocktail or Mocktail

Shake up something fruity and festive—maybe a peachy sangria, watermelon mojito, or a fizzy basil lemonade. Serve it in a fancy glass and toast to your tan lines.

🐚 7. Do One Thing You Meant to Do All Summer

That farmer’s market you never got around to? The sunrise hike you kept putting off? Now’s your chance! Cross one last thing off your summer bucket list.

🌻 8. Decorate with Late-Summer Flowers

Sunflowers, zinnias, and dahlias are in full bloom. Grab a fresh bouquet for your table or make your own DIY flower crown because why not?

🎨 9. Make a Summer Scrapbook or Photo Reel

Scroll through your camera roll and relive the memories—then turn them into something cute! Print your favorite pics or make a highlight reel to post and share.

✨ 10. Write a “Summer 2025 Highlight List”

List your favorite moments, new things you tried, and little joys you discovered (like how iced coffee just hits different on a 95-degree day). It’s a sweet way to reflect—and makes the season feel like a complete story.

💛 Final Thought:
Summer doesn’t have to fade away—it just turns into memories (and possibly a new screensaver of you in sunglasses). So go out and celebrate the last rays of sunshine. Dance barefoot, laugh too loud, and don’t forget the sunscreen. One last time.

What’s your end-of-summer ritual? Drop your favorite traditions, drinks, or must-dos in the comments! Let’s send summer off in style. 🍹🌴🌞

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🌞Celebration Drinks for the Last Days of Summer 🍹

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Because summer isn’t over until the ice melts

The sun’s hanging a little lower, the nights are getting just a touch cooler, and there’s pumpkin spice whispering from the shadows… but not so fast! Summer isn’t done yet, and that calls for one last round of tropical, fruity, and ice-cold celebration drinks before we trade beach towels for scarves.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, heading to the lake, or just want to toast to the golden hour from your porch, here are 8 end-of-summer drinks to help you squeeze every last drop of sunshine out of the season:

🍉 1. Watermelon Mojitos

Minty, juicy, and totally refreshing—this summer twist on the classic mojito tastes like poolside paradise. Pro tip: freeze watermelon cubes and use them as ice.

🍍 2. Pineapple Coconut Spritz

Tropical vibes? Check. Mix pineapple juice, coconut milk, and sparkling water for a light, fizzy drink that feels like a mini vacation. Add rum if you’re feeling it.

🍓 3. Strawberry Basil Lemonade (with or without vodka!)

Sweet strawberries + herbaceous basil + tart lemonade = one dreamy combo. Serve it in a mason jar with lots of ice and pretend you’re at a picnic, even if it’s just your backyard.

🍑 4. Peach Bellini Slushies

Blend fresh or frozen peaches with prosecco for a slushy, bubbly treat that’s basically adult fruit salad in a glass.

🍋 5. Citrus Sunset Cooler

Layer orange juice, cranberry juice, and a splash of soda water for a beautiful ombré mocktail that looks as good as it tastes. Add tequila or vodka if you’re aiming for party mode.

🧊 6. Frozen Rosé (aka Frosé)

The unofficial drink of every rooftop gathering. Blend rosé with strawberries and ice, then garnish with a lemon slice for that final “I still got it” summer moment.

🍒 7. Cherry Lime Gin Rickey

Bright, bubbly, and a little tart—this drink is perfect for sipping on the deck while soaking in that last burst of sunshine. Use fresh cherries if you’ve got ‘em!

🍻 8. End-of-Summer Shandy

Mix your favorite light beer with lemonade or ginger beer. It’s crisp, simple, and ideal for lawn games or just lazing in a hammock.

🎉 Final Toast: To tan lines, sandy toes, and drinks with umbrellas!
Summer may be packing up, but there’s still time to dance barefoot, grill something messy, and toast to golden skies with a drink in hand. So grab your favorite glass, rally your crew, and celebrate these sun-soaked days while they last.

🍹 What’s in your glass as summer says goodbye? Drop your favorite warm-weather drink in the comments!

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How to Host the Perfect End-of-Summer Party—for One

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Summer doesn’t always have to end with a big, loud bash. Sometimes, the most meaningful way to say goodbye to the season is with a party of one—a celebration that’s just for you. Whether you’ve had a wild summer full of adventure or a quiet one marked by reflection, an end-of-summer solo party can be a beautiful way to honor the season, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.

Set the Scene

Pick your spot: a balcony, a backyard, a patch of grass in the park, or just your cozy living room. String up some fairy lights, light a few candles, or bring out a lantern. Make it feel intentional. This isn’t just another Tuesday night—it’s a moment worth marking.

Curate the Perfect Menu

What’s your ultimate summer meal? Maybe it’s something grilled, fresh fruit, or even that fancy dessert you keep saying you’ll try. No rules here—eat exactly what you want. Pair it with your favorite drink (mocktail or cocktail) and serve it like you’re your own guest of honor.

The Vibe Is Everything

Build a playlist that captures your summer mood. Whether it’s nostalgic, breezy, or upbeat, music can set the tone. Want quiet reflection? Journal or write a letter to your “future self.” Feeling celebratory? Dance barefoot in your kitchen. Watch a summer movie or re-read your favorite book from the season.

Make It About You

This solo party isn’t about loneliness—it’s about presence. You’re closing out the season with intention. No awkward small talk, no stress—just you, your thoughts, and your favorite things.

So as the sun sets on another summer, light a sparkler, make a toast, and celebrate your own company. Because the best parties are the ones where you’re exactly where you want to be.

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The Perfect Picnic: Good Vibes, Great Snacks & Zero Stress 🧺🌞

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Let’s be real—there’s just something magical about eating outside. Whether you’re sprawled out on a blanket in the park, chilling at the beach, or setting up camp in your own backyard, a picnic is the ultimate low-key way to enjoy sunshine, food, and friends (or solo time—no shame in that!).

Here’s how to plan the perfect picnic without overthinking it:

🧺 Step 1: Grab Your Blanket and Go

You don’t need a fancy basket or Pinterest-worthy setup (unless you’re into that—then go off!). A big blanket or towel, a tote bag of snacks, and a chilled drink are all you really need. Bonus points for a portable speaker and a shady tree.

🥪 Step 2: Pack the Right Snacks

The golden rule of picnic food: keep it simple and not-too-messy. Think finger foods and stuff that doesn’t melt the moment it sees the sun.

Here are some no-fail options:

  • Sandwiches or wraps (cut them in half—trust us)
  • Cheese + crackers + grapes = instant fancy
  • Cut fruit (bonus if it’s watermelon)
  • Chips, hummus, and all the dippables
  • Cookies or brownies for that sweet ending

Pro tip: Freeze a few juice boxes or water bottles to keep everything cool—they’ll double as mini ice packs!

🍹 Step 3: Don’t Forget Drinks

Iced tea, lemonade, canned spritzers, or just good ol’ water—bring more than you think you’ll need. Hydration is key, especially when the sun’s doing its thing.

And if you’re feeling fancy? Bring mason jars and make your drinks look way more photogenic than necessary.

🎶 Step 4: Set the Vibe

A portable speaker + a laid-back playlist = picnic bliss. Think chill indie tunes, soft acoustic covers, or beachy classics. Or just let nature do the soundtrack—birdsong is underrated.

🕶️ Step 5: Keep It Chill (Literally and Emotionally)

Sunscreen. Sunglasses. A light sweater for when it gets breezy. Bring what you need to stay comfy, but don’t overpack and stress yourself out. The whole point is to relax and enjoy the moment.

🌼 Bonus Ideas for Extra Fun:

  • Bring a card game or frisbee
  • Pack a disposable camera for retro summer vibes
  • Pick wildflowers (where it’s allowed!)
  • Just lie back, look at the clouds, and do nothing for a bit

That’s It—You’re Picnicking Like a Pro

At the end of the day, a picnic is really just good food + fresh air + zero hurry. So text a friend, grab your snacks, and claim your spot in the sun. Or don’t text anyone and make it a peaceful picnic-for-one—we love a little solo sunshine time.

Now go outside and romanticize your lunch, you picnic legend. 🌿

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Take It Easy: How to Actually Relax This Summer ☀️🌴

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Summer isn’t just a season—it’s a vibe. It’s the time to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and unapologetically enjoy life. Whether you’re all about beach days, backyard hangs, or just hiding indoors with the AC on blast (no judgment), this is your official reminder to chill out and make the most of the summer glow-up.

Here’s your go-to list for maximum relaxation:

🌊 1. Water = Instant Zen

Whether it’s a pool, lake, beach, or even your shower—water has serious calming powers. Float around, dip your toes in, or sit nearby with a good book and a drink. Bonus points if your drink has a tiny umbrella in it.

🧉 2. Sip Slow

Iced coffee in the morning. Lemonade in the afternoon. Maybe a chilled glass of rosé once the sun starts setting. Summer is about savoring the small stuff. Make your drink, find a sunny (or shady) spot, and just be for a while.

🛏️ 3. Cancel a Plan (Yes, Really)

Sometimes the best way to relax is by not doing anything at all. Say no to that one-too-many barbecue or skip the group hike. If your calendar is stressing you out, you’re doing summer wrong.

📱 4. Unplug for an Hour

We know, it’s hard. But put the phone down for a bit and let your brain breathe. No doomscrolling, no “just checking.” Just you, the outdoors, and maybe a gentle breeze. Feels better already, right?

🌿 5. Make a Summer Chill Playlist

Music changes everything. Throw together your ultimate mix of breezy, beachy, easygoing tracks. Think: acoustic guitars, light beats, and songs that sound like sunshine. Press play and let the vibe take over.

🍦 6. Do Something Childish

Eat a popsicle. Blow bubbles. Run through a sprinkler. Lie in the grass and look at clouds. Summer is the perfect excuse to tap into your inner kid—because honestly, adults need playtime too.

🕶️ Final Thought

This summer, give yourself permission to slow down. You don’t have to do it all or see everyone or conquer the bucket list. Sometimes the best memories come from the laziest days.

So kick your feet up, let the sun kiss your skin (with SPF, of course), and just be. You’ve earned it.

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Summer 2025 Reading Trends: What Everyone Will Be Flipping Pages For

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There’s something magical about summer reading. Whether you’re poolside with a fizzy drink, on a breezy porch swing, or curled up in a too-cold, over-air-conditioned café, a good book just hits differently in the summer.

So if you’re wondering what to read—or what everyone else will be reading—this summer, here’s your guide to the biggest reading trends of Summer 2025. Spoiler: it’s a juicy mix of cozy, thrilling, romantic, and surprisingly real.

Let’s dive in 📚☀️

1. Romantasy Is Still Ruling Our Hearts (and Bookshelves)

If you thought the romantasy wave (that perfect blend of romance + fantasy) was over, think again. It’s booming. Think mythical creatures, powerful heroines, forbidden love, and world-building so rich you’ll miss it when you close the book.

Books with “grumpy mage + sunshine warrior” dynamics? Obsessively bookmarked. Enemies-to-lovers across kingdoms? Can’t get enough.

Hot sub-trend: Retellings of classic myths and fairy tales with a romantic twist.

2. Cozy Fiction & “Low-Stakes Drama” Is on the Rise

After years of high-intensity thrillers and heavy topics, readers are craving comfort. Enter: cozy fiction. Small-town settings, quirky characters, and plots where not much happens—but in the best way.

Think:

  • A recently divorced baker finding herself (and maybe a handsome florist).
  • A bookshop by the sea with a mysterious owner and a slow-burn romance.
  • A 70-year-old woman solving crimes with her cat and a cup of tea.

It’s feel-good, no-pressure, “just one more chapter” reading.

3. Nonfiction That Reads Like Fiction

This summer, readers want to learn and be entertained. Cue the rise of narrative nonfiction—true stories told in a way that reads like a page-turner.

Top picks:

  • Personal memoirs with humor, honesty, and heart (think: modern Nora Ephron vibes).
  • True crime, but with thoughtful reflection rather than shock value.
  • Science, psychology, and history books that explain the world in bite-size brilliance.

4. Global Voices & Translated Lit Are Taking Center Stage

Readers are expanding their horizons—literally. More people are reaching for translated fiction, stories from underrepresented cultures, and non-Western narratives. Expect to see buzz around books originally written in Korean, Spanish, and Arabic, along with Indigenous authors finally getting their spotlight.

It’s the summer of fresh perspectives—and it’s long overdue.

5. Books That Feel Like TikToks (in a good way)

Short chapters. Snappy pacing. Messy but lovable main characters. Welcome to the age of internet-influenced fiction.

These are the books that go viral for a reason:

  • Fast, funny, relatable.
  • Perfect for short attention spans.
  • Full of emotional moments you will highlight and post about.

And yes, they still hit you in the feels.

6. AI, Time Travel & “Almost Sci-Fi” Are Heating Up

Summer 2025’s wildcard genre? Speculative fiction that feels just one step ahead of reality.

Stories about near-future tech, AI gone rogue (or falling in love?!), climate-adapted societies, and time travel with emotional consequences are everywhere—and surprisingly addictive.

If you love Black Mirror, The Midnight Library, or anything that makes you go “wait… could this actually happen?”—this is your summer genre.

Lastly, Read What Feels Good

Whether you’re team fantasy, nonfiction nerd, or a sucker for soft romances, this summer is all about finding your comfort read. There’s no pressure to be “caught up” or reading what everyone else is. But if you are curious what’s trending—these are the titles and vibes making waves.

So, grab your sunglasses, a blanket, and maybe an iced latte. Summer 2025 is stacked with stories just waiting for you to crack them open.

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The Biggest Summer Trends of 2025 (That Everyone Will Be Talking About)

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Let’s be real: there’s nothing quite like summer. Longer days, warmer nights, and the perfect excuse to refresh your wardrobe, your playlist, and maybe even your smoothie order. And if you’re wondering what’s hot this summer (besides the weather), I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a trend chaser or just like knowing what’s out there, here are the biggest summer trends of 2025 that are taking over streets, feeds, and sandy beachside selfies.

1. Hyper-Color Is Back (But Grown-Up)

Remember those mood rings and color-changing shirts from the ’90s? Yeah, those are making a comeback—but elevated. Think sun-reactive accessories, UV-activated fabrics, and bold color palettes that shift depending on light and heat. It’s fun, it’s playful, and surprisingly chic.

👉 Hot tip: Look for pieces that change color in sunlight—it’s like a little science experiment you can wear.

2. “Quiet Luxury” Meets the Beach

The quiet luxury trend isn’t going anywhere, but for summer 2025, it’s gone coastal. Imagine: linen matching sets, neutral tones, minimal gold jewelry, and barely-there sandals. Effortless elegance meets vacation mode.

👉 Hot tip: Swap out loud logos for clean tailoring and soft, breathable fabrics. Think: Gwyneth Paltrow, but make it Malibu.

3. Digital Mermaidcore

Mermaidcore was already trending, but 2025’s version got a futuristic glow-up. We’re talking iridescent fabrics, sheer overlays, holographic eyeshadow, and accessories that shimmer like sea glass. It’s a little fantasy, a little Y2K, and very selfie-approved.

👉 Hot tip: Pair metallics with soft beach waves or slicked-back buns for that fresh-out-of-the-ocean look.

4. Eco-Everything

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a lifestyle flex. This summer, eco-conscious fashion, biodegradable glitter, reusable everything, and even “slow travel” are front and center. People want to look good and feel good about their choices.

👉 Hot tip: Opt for vintage pieces, plant-based skincare, and reusable beach totes with actual personality.

5. Wellness-First Travel

Gone are the days of cramming in ten tourist spots in two days. Summer 2025 is all about travel that feels good—think yoga retreats, digital detox cabins, forest bathing, and travel that’s less “go, go, go” and more “ahhh, yes.” People are prioritizing experiences that recharge, not drain.

👉 Hot tip: When booking your summer getaway, look for places offering mindfulness experiences or locally guided nature immersions.

6. Mocktails > Cocktails?

Believe it: the sober-curious movement is still going strong. This summer, mocktails are having a serious glow-up. Think botanical spritzes, adaptogen-infused tonics, and drinks that look like they came out of a cocktail lab—but without the hangover.

👉 Hot tip: Try a sparkling hibiscus-lavender tonic or cucumber-ginger spritz at your next BBQ. Your liver will thank you.

Final Thoughts

Summer 2025 is all about vibes with intention. Whether you’re channeling mermaid energy, embracing minimalist elegance, or just swapping your margarita for a mood-boosting mocktail, the key is feeling good in what you wear, where you go, and what you do.

So pack your bags (or at least update your playlist)—this summer’s shaping up to be one for the books.

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Review: Medusa’s Makeup Sun Kissed Bronzer

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IMG_1395

Summer is upon us and we all like to look more sun-kissed during these months. Unless you’re like me, who’s pasty white and usually end up having to hide under beach umbrellas or parasols. However, for the rest of you, bronzers are a godsend and truly help achieve that sun-kissed look many strive to achieve.

What It Is: Bronzer

Distinguishing Factors: Vegan

Verdict: I’ll be honest, despite having worked as a makeup artist, and used bronzers on my clients, I never quite mastered that technique on myself. I don’t know if my skintone has a lot to do with it (I could give any pasty-faced vampire a run for their money), but any bronzers that I have attempted to use in the past always end up giving me the same result; muddy skin. This is also why I don’t contour my cheeks. And that is why I end up using many bronzers and contour palettes as eyeshadows or crease colours for my eye looks.

Once I opened this bronzer, I fell in love with the colour because it did give the impression of being sunkissed. Not only that, it looked light enough for someone with a zombie complexion like myself. And honestly, even if it didn’t work as a bronzer, it’d still make for a pretty eyeshadow shade.

First of all, the blendability of this is soft and leaves a nice sun-kissed glow. Unfortunately for me, it doesn’t quite translate well on my cheeks (again, looking too orangey) but it looks very pretty on my lids. But I’m sure that other people might find this bronzer to be just as good as the iconic Hula Bronzer.

Price: $13

Where To Buy It: Medusa’s Makeup Site

White and Pink Strikeout Cosmetics Beauty Logo

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Get a Beach Body Stat By Cutting Empty Calories!

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What-is-an-empty-calorie

It’s that time of year again when everyone is trying to drop pounds as quickly as they put them on back during the luscious Christmas holidays (ya know we were all guilty of packing away cakes, cookies, and chocolates and downing it all down with gallons of eggnog).

But have no fear! Here’s a quick and easy way to shed some pounds without going too overboard or fasting (never cool).

What causes most of us to gain weight is empty calories. Meaning, these are calories that hold no nutritional value to us, so eating them not only doesn’t apply to making us healthier or giving us energy for the day, but rather are very detrimental to our health. These calories are usually low in proteins and dietary fats, but high in carbs (simple sugars). But we’re all human, so cutting out ALL empty calories is unrealistic and would also be kind of sad (seriously who wants to bid farewell to sweets forever? Not this gal!).

So here’s a nifty chart for you to take advantage:

The USDA MyPlate Limits empty calories to the following:

Women/Ages 19-30: 260 calories

Women/Ages 31-50: 160 calories

Women/Over 50: 120 calories

What constitutes as empty calories?

The following foods contain empty calories:

Cake, cookies, pastries, sodas, cheese, pizza, sports drinks, ice cream, hot dogs, bacon, jam, chips, French fries, syrup, and donuts

empty calorie

Try to fill up on fruits and vegetables instead, where you’ll end up feeling more full for a longer time with less calorie consumption, and limit your empty calorie intake to half a serving or one serving a day, and you’re bound to see some results in your waistline!

Let me know some of your tips and tricks for shedding pounds in the comments below!

By: Azzurra Nox

Remembering Dolores and the Summer of 1999

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dolores o riordan-4

While the majority of the world became a Cranberries fan with the iconic song Zombie, I didn’t become a fan till 1999, when their fourth album Bury the Hatchet was released, preceded by their single, Promises. Something about that angry revenge anthem spoke to me (I was an angsty, angry teen) and I also loved the music video cause the wicked witch of the west resembled Fairuza Balk a little. Someone else who was equally a fan of that album was my cousin Melody.

I remember how she and I would listen to the album and daydream about living in London or Los Angeles. That we felt that maybe, in cities like that, our mutual weirdness would be better understood or at least not scoffed or poked fun at, as opposed to where we lived.

My cousin was a bigger fan than I was, to the point that she said, “I wish my name could be Dolores at least it would be better suited for me than Melody. Do-lo-res…just saying it sounds darkly poetic.”

We’d sing along to Animal Instinct whilst applying makeup and drinking conspicuous amounts of coffee and Bailey’s Irish Cream. Clouds of smoke would circle above our heads as we shared lipsticks and secrets, all the while Dolores O’Riordan’s voice at times aggressive, other times ethereal playing in the background. We’d stroll the cobblestone streets of our small Sicilian town, humming Just My Imagination, and dreaming big dreams. This was before selfies were a thing, so I don’t have photos documenting those moments of us together, but they’ve remained engrained in my mind, milk fresh as though they’ve only happened several months ago, and not years ago. How we’d lie both in bed, our long hair meshing together, her’s bleached blonde, mine strawberry blonde, and how it created the perfect sunset hue, and the notes from the songs would transport us elsewhere, somewhere we were convinced that we’d be better versions of ourselves.

On Christmas Eve of 2013, Melody committed suicide—and although I hadn’t seen her in years since 1999 (I had moved to America and she had moved to Turin), I couldn’t stop thinking of the last summer days we spent together. Of how everything seemed possible—when we were young and fearless. And we didn’t know it then, but maybe, we already were the better versions of ourselves but we were just too blind to see it.

Now, with the recent and unexpected death of Dolores O’Riordan, I can’t help but think about how Bury the Hatchet had been the soundtrack of my last days spent with Melody. And how often, these last five years, I’ve found myself listening to the familiar songs as a way to feel closer to my cousin, as a way to be transported back to those careless summer days.

And now, I’m merely left with the songs and the memories of a summer that’s gone and with it its dreams.

By: Azzurra Nox