Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like they’ve been sweating for 7 days straight? All I know that it’s been HOT these past couple days (I guess that’s what you get for July + global warming) and I’ve been desperately trying to find ways to cool down, while still enjoying these last couple weeks of summer. Here’s what I’ve been liking and favoriting while I’ve been trying to stay cool. 

Rowing boats

Like legitimately rowing boats. Two of my best friends from home visited me recently, and we decided to go to Spruce Street Harbor Park on probably the hottest day of the year. Needless to say, we were low key dying the entire time we were there (probably didn’t help that we were a taaaad hungover), so to cool off, we decided to go on those little paddle boats that are shaped like Swans (you know exactly what I’m talking about). Well, the Swan boats only fit 2 people, but rowboats fit 3. So we rowed some boats. It look us a little while to get the hang of it, but it was so fun and there’s always a breeze~ on the water. If you find yourself at Spruce Street Harbor Park this summer consider renting a row boat. It’s great memories, and it’s only $10/half hour (trust me, you don’t need more than that).

Hershey Park Hacks

I lied before. The hottest day of the year wasn’t when I was at Spruce Street Harbor Park. It was when Ryan and I went to Hershey Park this past weekend. It was legitimately 95+ degrees out, but that didn’t stop us from riding all the roller coasters to our hearts’ content.

I have to say, if you’ve never been to Hershey Park, consider going. It’s a super clean park with a TON of rides and a water park. There’s definitely something for everyone. Of course, amusement parks are pricey, so here are some tips to save some cash there:

• Do the park + concert combo. This is what Ryan and I did. We got tickets to Zac Brown for Saturday night and did the park during the day. If you present your concert ticket entering the park, you get a great discount ($20+ off!).
• Stalk CVS counters. If you’re not going the concert route, look out for coupons next time you’re at a CVS. They run promos all summer & there are usually coupons right at the check out ($10-$15 off).
• Bring unopened water bottles. Most parks don’t let you bring in food/drink, however unopened** water bottles are the exception. You can have a water bottle per guest, and it’ll save you from paying $5 for a bottle (unlimited savings depending on how much water you drink).

Escape to Italy

Not to actual Italy, but I wish. The night before Ryan and I died of heat stroke at Hershey, we went to Little Nonna’s on Locust St. It lived up to all the hype. Highly recommend getting the meatballs for an appetizer, and the gnocchi will actually change your life. I was also sipping on the summer sangria, which was fab. Candlelight & romantic mood included. {Here’s the full menu}

Guilt-Free Treat

What’s better than ice cream in the summer? Ice cream that you don’t have to feel guilty about. Big shout out to my roomie from last year who introduced me to Yasso Bars. They’re frozen greek yogurt, gluten free, come in a bunch of flavors, and oh they’re 100 calories.

Find your new beach read

{Fun fact: My mom thinks I looked like Matilda when I was little.^}

If we all must suffer the heat, might as well do it on the beach. And last time I checked, beach + book = the perfect combo. For all of you who have a Kindle or Nook, you have to sign up for BookBub. They give you daily deals for ebooks off the Best Sellers lists. I’m talking ebooks for $2, 99 cents and sometimes they’re free. Books on a budget.

Liking really cold showers & Favoriting the existence of air conditioners. &.