Instead of hoping for snow this year, we poked fun at the sun. We brought some craft sand inside and made a Christmas village display at the beach. The blue bead tides and candy cane eating shark toys sat on our mantle as we added photos of our faces to the scene. When we went to the actual beach, the lifeguard stand was decorated with Christmas lights and wreaths painted on extra lifesavers.

There were a few Christmas photo shoots going on near the shore. Some of them were funny photos with rolled up pant leg Santas standing near their Mrs. Claus or elf counterparts. The other half were serious families with large color coordinated outfits that would go in hanging frames or generational photo books. We just took selfie photos of our sandmen (or Sandmounds) and patted them into a mountain of shells and sticks before we left. We talked about who had the best one and “if they became magical, like Frosty”. Would it be called Sandy?

We had our gingerbread men, hot chocolate, and Christmas feast food with the option of chocolate popsicles late at night when the humid heat kept us awake. We could go outside late in the evening and listen to crickets chirp while we set up a picnic blanket. There wasn’t any sunlight in our eyes and lanterns kept at a distance set up a calm mood. We could sit or lie down or play a card game.  Our far out friends and family gave us beach bags and totes stuffed with gifts when their ugly sweaters went out of season (It was really useful when you could take a nap on your own while the games quieted down).

The nights after Christmas were filled with oscillating fans and leftover chocolate popsicles. At one point, we planned an indoor snowball fight with fake cotton snowballs and blankets to hide behind. The second we started throwing, the heat had already won the battle. All of us were spread out on the floor like leftover snow angels.

New Year’s heat kept us inside after we were drained by the constant loss of sweat and the fireworks popping in the middle of the night. We watched the ball drop and blew bubbles with whatever air was left in us to save for the mess of confetti and fireworks. I thought of eating twelve ice cubes under the table for the celebration, but I feel like I would be the only one to choke. We decided it was safe to drink at least twelve glasses of water tomorrow. To keep it fun, the person who drank less than twelve glasses of water had to get pelted with the cotton snowballs. Everybody started on their first glass after that.

Although we couldn’t bring winter wonderland to us we still had a blast and made some memories that couldn’t be outdone. Some days gave us moments to rest and the others let us have some fun. When life got busy again, we thought of some ideas for another heatwave holiday.

 What are some of yours?

Photo by Alexey Demidov on Unsplash

The post Green Winter Memory – Some Ideas for a Warm Winter Season appeared first on GirlSpring.

We don’t text all day anymore.
We send one photo, maybe two,
and trust the rest.

You still know when I’m tired.
I still know when you’re pretending
not to be.

We learned each other
in small places.
Bus rides.
Shared snacks.
Laughing too loud
when we were supposed to be quiet.

Somewhere, we stopped needing proof.
No constant updates.
No matching schedules.
Just the quiet understanding
that we’re still here.

When we meet again,
it’s easy.
Like sitting down in a chair
you once thought you lost.

We don’t hold each other tightly.
We don’t have to.

We stay
because we want to.

The post How We Stay Friends appeared first on GirlSpring.

As an upcoming senior who has grown a lot over the last few years, here are the essential tips for surviving and thriving in your first year of high school to help you have the best high school experience!

1. Don’t stress about the increase in workload

It sounds easier said than done, right? Having to do more work can be scary because it means more stress and less fun. You might be rethinking how ready you are. However, it is be doable!

Remember, the workload assigned in high school is designed for your age group, so everyone else will be having the same struggles (whether they admit it or not). Think back to when you were in elementary school when you were so worried about going to the next grade – well this is the same!

Well, good news, you made it! This year will be very similar to the past few years. You might be thinking it’s going to be impossible, but all of the sudden you’ll be heading to 10th grade and realizing you made it through!

      2. Be prepared for your friends to switch around – it’s natural!

One of the worst feelings can be losing a friend. Whether that be abruptly or slowly, it hurts all the same. But remember, you’re growing up and finding yourself, which sometimes means outgrowing certain friends. Your personalities might have matched in elementary or middle school, but people change over time, which is totally normal.

People never stay the same their whole lives, especially as they mature. Although this might be tough at first, you will meet other people later on who you might get along great with. With this in mind, be open to creating friendships with all different types of people! Just because you have different hobbies, doesn’t mean your personalities won’t go great together!

       3. Don’t be afraid to say no – or yes!

Given the increased workload in high school, you’re now at the age when, “my mom said I have to stay home and study,” is the best excuse for saying no to an invitation.

High school can be hard, especially when your friends start partaking in activities you may or may not want to join in on. If you don’t want to do those same things and don’t feel comfortable telling people that, there’s nothing wrong with slowly distancing yourself.

Moreover, growing up comes with freedom, and if you feel comfortable with something and you know you won’t be doing anything wrong, then don’t feel guilty about it.

      4. Learn to cope with jealousy

As you grow up, you might encounter more complex or difficult social situations than you did before. Maybe your two closest friends are having a sleepover without you, or the friend group you thought you were a part of is having a group function without you. Maybe you can’t afford the new store everyone is shopping at, or you’re the only one of your friends without a boyfriend or girlfriend, so you miss out on the double dates.

Dealing with jealousy in high school is inevitable. Some people you know may leave you feeling genuinely left out, but if you feel comfortable mentioning it to them, then go ahead. It’s important to remember that these things will happen now and then throughout your life, and you might even make someone feel like this without realizing it!

Try to keep in mind that if you’re comfortable with yourself, jealousy doesn’t sting as badly. Also, if someone is purposefully leaving you out, they are clearly dealing with their own insecurities, which has nothing to do with you.

What if people left you out but not purposefully? Feeling like no one even thought of you can sometimes hurt even worse. In cases like these, those people clearly aren’t your real friends, but that’s okay. Be happy with people you click with, and it’ll feel so much better than feeling left out by the “popular” crew.

        5. Join those clubs

During my freshman year of high school, I moved to a new city to attend a new school. Being in a new setting without knowing anyone on the first day of school was possibly one of the most nerve wracking experiences of my life. I can still feel the crippling anxiety I felt as I got out of the car.

I sat by someone who looked nice and tried to start conversation by asking, “what homeroom do you have?” After the conversation picked up, I realized it wasn’t so bad. Over the next month, I joined every club my schedule would allow, and that’s how I met my people!

Clubs are the best way to find friends with similar interests as you. Plus, they look great to colleges – a win-win! I cannot recommend anything as much as getting involved. As long as you don’t overwhelm yourself, you won’t regret it!

Here’s a cute book about transitioning into freshman year! And don’t forget to check out Girl Spring’s advice on freshman year tips!

The post Essential Tips for Surviving and Thriving in Your First Year of High School appeared first on GirlSpring.

Stay Open and Approachable

First impressions matter, so presenting yourself as friendly and approachable will make a huge difference. Smile often, maintain good eye contact, and show genuine interest in others.

People are naturally drawn to positive energy. Whether sitting in class or walking through the hallways, keep your body language open. Avoid crossed arms or looking down at your phone all the time.

Try saying “hello” to classmates or complimenting someone. Friendly gestures like these can open the door to conversations and potential friendships.

Join Clubs, Teams, or Activities

One of the best ways to meet people is by participating in extracurricular activities. Whether drama club, student council, or the soccer team, joining a group based on your interests places you in an environment where friendships can develop naturally.

For instance, if you’re into sports, try joining the tennis team. Shared experiences like warmup stretches before tennis practice or working together on doubles matches will spark conversations and create bonds. By showing up consistently and engaging actively, you’ll build camaraderie and make friends who share your passions.

Practice Active Listening

While making friends involves putting yourself out there, it’s equally important to listen. Paying attention to what others say shows that you care and value their thoughts. When someone talks about their weekend plans or their favorite TV shows, ask follow-up questions to keep the conversation flowing.

Listening also helps you discover shared interests and create deeper connections. You don’t need to dominate every conversation. Instead, focus on creating a balanced dialogue where everyone feels heard and included.

Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Meeting new people means stepping into unfamiliar territory. Sitting with a group of strangers at lunch or striking up a conversation with someone in a class might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s worth the effort. Small risks like these often lead to big rewards.

Everyone was new to high school at some point. Remember that you’re not alone. Most people appreciate a friendly gesture or an attempt to connect, even if you feel a bit awkward. Confidence grows with practice and patience; the more you reach out, the easier making friends will become.

Stay Patient and Be Yourself

Building friendships takes time, so don’t try to rush the process. Authenticity is key to creating strong, genuine connections.

Stay true to yourself and let your personality shine. People will appreciate your honesty and feel comfortable opening up around you.

If it takes a few weeks or even months to find your group, that’s okay. Friendships grow naturally when you’re friendly and kind.

Attending a new high school is a fresh start filled with possibilities. These tips for making friends at a new high school will help you navigate this exciting chapter with confidence and positivity.

The post Helpful Tips for Making Friends at a New High School appeared first on GirlSpring.

Source: Freepik

As the scent of pine fills the air and the festive lights begin to twinkle, everything instantly starts to feel like Christmas. The scent of freshly baked cookies, the warmth of hands clasped around steaming mugs of cocoa, and the joyful burst of laughter from living rooms all paint the picture of pure holiday joy. It’s a season of family and friends coming together, indulging in beloved traditions of unfolding old stories, exchanging many a thoughtful gift following fun Secret Santa rules, and making merry. 

Gift exchanges are the magical highlight of the holiday season! The thrill of unwrapping something specially chosen for you makes the moment even more special. Whether it’s a beautifully embroidered scarf, an exclusive subscription to a book club, or a cozy winter getaway, each gift seamlessly fits into your life, adding a layer of holiday charm to each day.

While receiving gifts from your loved ones is always heartwarming, the excitement can fade away quickly when you receive something you wouldn’t choose for yourself or already own. We’ve all been there—receiving a meaningful gift that, despite the love behind it, just doesn’t quite excite you.

Instead of saying, “Wow, I love it,” you just try to escape the situation with vague smiles and courtesy thank yous.

Christmas Shop With Ease

While gift exchange is a delightful tradition, gift shopping is definitely not. From the excitement of picking a unique treasure to finding something that actually matches your personality, gift hunting is daunting for your loved ones.

What if you could share your dreamy wish list with your loved ones and make gift-hunting a fun adventure for them? With platforms like MyRegistry, you can easily create your dreamy holiday gift list and share it with your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a Secret Santa exchange or a festive white elephant party, their Secret Santa Generator can match you with the perfect gifter and ensure you get something special.

Therefore, this holiday season, let’s help you craft your dreamy holiday gift list to make it even more special. Your wish list won’t only guide your loved ones toward perfect gifts but also ensure you receive gifts full of unforgettable memories!

Crafting a Thoughtful Gift List that Makes Every Gift a Delightful Surprise

• Gifts that Mirror Your Personality

A truly meaningful gift feels like an extension of you! They make you feel cherished and add joy to your life for more than one holiday season. Adding items that seamlessly fit into your personality will make a perfect gift choice for your wish list. Whether it’s fitness equipment for your health journey, a gratitude journal for wellness, or a set of handcrafted knives for culinary adventures, they all will allow you to pursue your passions. Adding such items invites your loved ones to give you something that you truly desire and will appreciate.

• Strengthening Bonds with Presents

More than gifts, it’s the memories that we cherish. Why not add items to your gift list that’ll allow you to collect beautiful memories and strengthen your bond with your loved ones? Whether it’s engraved wine glasses to celebrate special occasions, board games to enjoy during family get-togethers, or hobby kits like painting sets, knitting kits, or gardening supplies to have fun with your family, adding such items will help you make lots of cherished memories. These gifts become a symbol of love and togetherness and make every holiday moment feel extraordinary.

• Practical Gifts for Convenience

The holiday season reminds us of the simple joys of life! Whether it’s spending time with your loved ones, sharing heartfelt anecdotes, or indulging in traditional home-cooked food, it all reminds us of what truly matters: love and the warmth of being together. Why not add items to your holiday gift list that won’t just bring joy to your everyday rituals but will also remind you of the people who make your life special? You can go for everyday, practical essentials like ergonomic chairs for your home office, cozy weighted blankets for chilly winter, or a set of artisanal candles to fill your home with love. Every time you use these items, you’ll think of the love and care your loved ones infuse into your life.

• Local Treasures: Gifts that Stand Out

Just as unique as you are, so should be the gifts you receive! Local boutiques and artisans pour all their love into creating one-of-a-kind treasures that perfectly match your personality and charm. By including gifts like a hand-stitched leather journal, a collection of artisanal teas, or a handwoven blanket, you receive something as unique as you while supporting small businesses. Adding local items to your gift list not only makes your presents special and meaningful but also spreads delight across your loved ones to these creators.

• Two Gifts in One: Experiences and Lasting Memories

While material gifts often end up gathering dust, experiential gifts give you memories that forever remain etched in your heart and linger long after the season ends. Imagine walking around the streets of Japan during the scenic cherry blossom, the calmness you feel within you after a cozy weekend spa retreat, or the shared moments of teary-eyed laughter after a family photography session. This is the magic experiential gifts weave into your life. Whether it’s a trip to the continent, a sumptuous retreat, or a sweet photo session with family, they go way beyond the moment of receiving the tickets or passes.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are the time to celebrate love, share laughter, cherish bonds, and create lasting memories with meaningful gifts. By sharing your dream holiday gift list with your loved ones, you can add a layer of magic to the celebrations and make them far more memorable. Your gift list ensures you receive items that’ll delight you long after the holiday season and give your loved ones a sneak peek into what your heart truly desires. Here’s to an unforgettable holiday season filled with love, laughter, and gifts that truly warm your heart!

The post The Secret to Perfect Gifts: Creating a Thoughtful Gift List appeared first on GirlSpring.

Many questions randomly seem to pass through my mind throughout what my biological clock tells me is “day”. Yet, one seems to appear multiple times a day. A version of the question “What is Love?”

Safety, Warmth, Shelter, and Compassion. The feeling of belonging and knowing you are right where you need to be. Not the type of love where requests are met due to obligation or requirement, but the reciprocated type of love. The effortless flow of feeling and simple want of being in the presence of certain people type of love. Not the type that makes you feel like you have to change yourself to be just right, or the type of love that is forced upon you through relation. Simply the indescribable emotion felt only with certain people who motivate you to be better. Without you even knowing it, these people genuinely want the best for you. The type of love where you won’t understand its significance until you have felt it purely.

However, as this question persisted in my mind, I realized that there can’t be one concrete answer to it. Just as an essay or analysis can vary depending on the author, the answer genuinely differs from person to person. A reflective example: Imagine someone who misses their loved one. They make connections throughout the day that resemble that person’s influence on their own life.

For instance, two trees-one shorter than the other-remind a person of someone they miss. The same applies to the people’s relationship. In this example, those who have not shared the same experiences and moments with this person will likely see the trees as random, highlighting why the definition of love depends on your individual experiences. Without the experiences that each person feels individually, the power of Love diminishes with false hope.

Despite the feeling of pure happiness brought by being around loved ones, love can teach us many things as well. The vulnerability felt automatically when expressing love towards people brings joy and growth into our lives. Although love may bring everyone a peculiar connection with trees, it sure can make us do things we didn’t think we would do for anyone.

The post What is Love? appeared first on GirlSpring.

Spring is finally here!! This means it’s the perfect time to share some joy and give out gifts to people you love! There are so many amazing cute gifts for spring this year, you may have trouble finding the perfect one. You need some tips on what gifts would be the best or the perfect-fit…well don’t worry! Here is short list of some of the perfect gifts for Spring 2024!

1. Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

The weather in spring can change depending on the day, and you made need to carry a little chapstick around depending on the weather. The Laneige Lip Glowy Balm is perfect for this very reason! Not only is the packaging super cute and would make a great gift just for that, the results from the actually product are super good as well!! The perfect gift for the changing weather!

2. Sol de Janeiro Perfume Mist

Spring time is all about flowers and the fresh air, and who doesn’t love the smell of flowers during the spring time! Well if your looking for that perfect floral scent all day every day, pick up some Sol de Janeiro Perfume Mist! They have a variety of different scents to choose from, and not tend to be as floral as others, so its perfect if you prefer that. This would also make the perfect gift for any of your friends or mom!

3. Brandy Melville Tank Tops

The sun is always out in spring, but the air can be breezy at times too. What clothing would go perfect with this weather…A tank top!! When the weathers not too cold and not too hot, and sometimes you don’t wanna wear long sleeves. Well, tank tops can easily be layered with a jacket, anther short, anything really. It’s such a staple and very versatile that everyone should have one! Perfect top for the spring gift giving season!

4. Owala Water Bottle

During this season it’s important to always stay hydrated, and what better way to do so than with a super cute water bottle. The Owala brand comes with so many different versions of water bottle designs that no water bottle will be the same. The color selection for thus brand also has a very wide range, so you can customize and personalize your water bottle the way you want! You could buy this gift for just about anyone and they would love it!

5. Linen Pants

This may be a trend, it may not, but it sure is great for this spring season! The linen is able to keep you comfortable even with all the sun out. The material itself isn’t too thick, for anyone that likes that, and can be paired with a variety of clothing! These also work well as lounge pants, but are perfect for going out to eat or just for an easy every day look! Everyone needs a pair of these for Spring 2024!!

For more gift ideas, check out this article!

The post The Perfect Spring Gifts!! appeared first on GirlSpring.

Joining a sorority is about building connections, personal growth, and contributing positively to the community. Whether you’ve just joined a sorority or are thinking about joining one, there are tons of ways to plan on connecting with your sisters. Check out these excellent activities to do with your sorority.

Sisterhood Retreat

Escaping busy campus life and retreating to a serene location can strengthen sisterly bonds. Whether it’s a cabin in the woods, a beach house, or a quiet country estate, a sisterhood retreat lets you unwind, reflect, and grow closer.

You can schedule workshops focusing on personal development, team-building exercises, and open discussions to facilitate deeper connections and understanding among the sisters.

Philanthropy Events

Philanthropy is at the core of many sororities, embodying the spirit of charity and supporting meaningful causes. Organizing a neighborhood clean-up or doing fundraisers are some ways a sorority can give back to the community.

You all can make a positive change on campus and have pride within your sisterhood. Plus, working together toward a common goal is a great way to enhance teamwork!

Wellness Workshops

Hosting wellness workshops is a thoughtful way to show that you care about your sisters’ well-being. Invite experts to do sessions on yoga, meditation, stress management, nutrition, and self-care practices. These workshops can provide valuable tools and techniques for leading a healthier, more balanced life.

Arts and Crafts Night

Unleash your sorority’s creative side with an arts and crafts night. This fun activity is perfect for de-stressing and allows members to express themselves uniquely. The possibilities are endless, whether it’s painting, jewelry making, scrapbooking, or pottery.

It is a great way to explore creativity and results in beautiful handmade items that can serve as mementos of your time together!

Campus Scavenger Hunt

Bring some excitement and adventure into members’ lives with a campus scavenger hunt. A scavenger hunt is an excellent activity to do with your sorority because it’s fun and helps newer members become more familiar with the campus.

Incorporate riddles and clues about your sorority’s history and traditions to make it educational. This activity will surely bring out the competitive spirit in everyone while promoting teamwork and collaboration.

Potluck Dinner

Organize a potluck dinner where each sister brings a dish to share. Encourage everyone to bring recipes that are meaningful to them, whether it’s a family recipe, a dish from their cultural background, or something they simply love to cook. This activity is not just about enjoying delicious food—it’s about sharing stories and learning more about each other.

The post Excellent Activities To Do With Your Sorority appeared first on GirlSpring.

           As many of us delve into the month of March, filled with love and connectedness, we should take a moment to remember all the wonderful relationships we have. However, one thing to remember is that relationships don’t just include those with couples and being in love or spending time with your soulmate. Relationships can also include friendships. In a world where social media often emphasizes quantity over quality, it’s crucial to recognize the profound importance of cultivating those genuine friendships that help lift you up, support you and are willing to walk with you through the highs and lows of your life. Let’s get a closer look into the true value of good friends.  

          Emotional Support 

            In life we often face a myriad of emotions – from the exhilarating highs of new experiences to the depths of heartache and confusion. Having good friends can offer a safe space to express these emotions without fear of judgment. Whether it’s a breakup, a disagreement with family or simply feeling overwhelmed, knowing that you have friends who truly care can make all the difference. 

         Shared Experiences

          Life is filled with adventures waiting to be experienced, and sharing these moments with good friends can amplify the joy exponentially. Whether it’s exploring new hobbies, embarking on road trips or simply hanging out and enjoying each other’s company, the bonds forged through the shared experiences are irreplaceable. These memories become the foundation for lifelong friendships and serve as reminders of the beauty of companionship. 

          Growth and Self Discovery 

            Good friends can help support us through our trials and help encourage personal growth. They celebrate our successes and cheer us on when we’re striving for our goals. They gently challenge us to step out of our comfort zones. Through their encouragement and honest feedback, we learn more about ourselves, our strengths and our aspirations. Surrounding ourselves with friends who inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves is key to unlocking our full potential.  

         Unconditional Acceptance 

           One of the most beautiful aspects of true friendship is the unconditional acceptance it offers. Good friends embrace us for who we are, flaws and all. They love us not in spite of our imperfections but because of them, recognizing that our uniqueness is what makes us special. In a world that often pressures us to conform to certain standards, having friends who accept us wholeheartedly fosters a sense of belonging and empowers us to embrace our authentic selves.  

        In conclusion, the importance of good friends are essential parts of our lives. They are the confidants who listen without judgment. The people who share in our joys and sorrows, and the mirrors who reflect back the best parts of ourselves. As you cherish the friendships in your life, remember to nurture these connections, cherish the moments shared and always strive to be the kind of friend you want to have. Together, we can come through the ups and downs of life and emerge stronger, wiser and surrounded by the love and support of our chosen family – our friends. 

For more articles on the value of friendship, check out How to Have Deeper Friendships as a Teenager!

The post The True Value of Good Friends appeared first on GirlSpring.

Being a teenager, the world is thrown at you. Some days we feel like grown-ups, other days we remember we’re just kids. We become more self-aware – both fortunately and unfortunately so. Yet, we are still trying to figure out exactly who this “self” is. 

As wonderful of an opportunity as the high school experience can be, finding our place to belong within it is difficult at first. Finding those who see the world the same way, laugh at the same absurdities, and dream the same dreams can be the greatest guide one needs to take what is thrown at us with open arms.

Despite what others may say about teenagers, I believe our friendships can be and are fruitful and profound. Here are three ways to create these deep relationships, ensuring that they outlive high school, long-distance colleges, and the life following thereafter. 

1. Discover Together

Discovering new places and hobbies with a friend is an exciting way for you to discover more about each other. Visiting a nearby city or learning an instrument together gives you an experience to bond over. It also shows you just how well you live life together. You may even discover a talent or interest of your friends that you never knew about.

2. Spend Time with Each Other’s Family

For a girl who is super close to her family like me, it’s so important to see if my two favorite people mesh well together. Besides testing out the compatibility between the people you love the most, one’s home is often where they are most authentic and comfortable. Seeing this side of your friend or allowing your friend to see this side of yourself leads to a greater connection and authenticity essential to any relationship.

I love having friends over for dinner (or for making dinner), not only to introduce them to the people who have raised me and shaped me into who I am, but also because I’m comfortable being wholly myself at home and can finally share that with someone outside of it. If your parents are up for it, inviting a friend on vacation with your family is also a great way to do this.

3. Work Through Discomfort Together

No friendship is perfect. There are disagreements, miscommunications, and moments of imperfection. With a mature and understanding attitude, however, these disagreements can result in a greater bond than before. I know what it’s like to want to let something go, either due to the fear of confrontation or a fear that your friend will get upset at you. I also know what it’s like to want to resort to pettiness. It’s easy to only care about how you were wronged or how you feel.

Instead of ignoring the situation or creating a tense environment for the two of you, I propose to talk about it. Tell them how you are truly feeling, and be open to their side of the story. Understand them, and after all things considered, be forgiving. Not every conflict is the same, and forgiveness may not be an option. But at least you gave the time needed for yourself, and your friend to think without anger or pettiness. 

To read more about friendship, check out How to Brighten a Friend’s Day!

And for more tips on how to make and keep strong friendships, click here!

The post How to Have Deeper Friendships as a Teenager appeared first on GirlSpring.