The Observer, April 27, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 26
Sex & Dating: Keep summer sexy as possible
It's finally here. The mounds of snow in the parking lots at Legacy Village have been zapped by the sun, you've got a sunburn on your left arm from leaving the window down while driving to Coldstone, and you just used the last drop of your printing balance in the Village on your final paper. It's summer break. You no doubt have plans to lounge poolside, catch up on Laguna Beach, or maybe even log some time at a summer job or research. But let's not forget that summer has a hotter, sultrier side. Maximize it.
A totally sexy summer starts out with the right mindset. Having confidence issues? Take matters into your own (or a stylist's!) hands and get a mini-makeover for the summer. Dress your tresses in some highlights or just get a bouncy summer cut. An easy, at-home way to jump start your summer mood is to test some self-tanner. The sun-kissed look will make you feel sexier, look healthier, and even appear slimmer! To turn yourself into an instant summer sexpot, leave on an old bathing suit while you apply to give yourself bona-fide tan lines. Nothing gets your honey thinking about what you look like in the buff quicker than a glimpse at a place where the sun didn't shine.
Next, get rid of all reminders of winter. Stow away coats, boots, and sweaters like you are preparing for a permanent move to Maui. Nothing kills a relaxing summer day better than a glance at your boots, still spattered with mud from the day you got sprayed with slush walking to chem. Ew. Try to avoid eating cold-weather food like soups, heavy casseroles, and pot pies. If you must taste one of these dishes, (Chef Mom still around?) pair it with some tropical fruit or a crisp salad. Stuck in an office or lab all day? Bring summery drinks with you like pink lemonade or sweet tea, and be sure to grab some time in the sun, even if it's just during your coffee break.
Now that your mind's right, it's time to take advantage of the freedom of summer. Single? Make it your goal to have a carefree fling or at least to flirt up as many cuties in your town as possible. Go somewhere silly like a mini-golf place or a go-cart course. Ask the nearest hottie to help you with your shot or ask if they want to share a double go-cart. A fun activity will melt any potential ice between you two and guarantee that you've snatched a spontaneous person.
Coupled up? Tighten your bond by trying a (slightly scary) new activity together like rock climbing. Braving the great outdoors and overcoming an obstacle together will result in mad closeness. Make a list of a few things you've always wanted to try but have been nervous about and then compare. Do everything that matches and then pick one or two from each of your lists to add to your repertoire. Scratching each item off the list as the summer goes on will give you an awesome sense of accomplishment and keep you excited for what's in store!
Summer's not summer without some randy romps, and the balmy weather makes it oh-so easy. Vow to take sex outside at least once every week or two. The idea of being out in the open (even if you're hidden behind trees) will give you a "we-could-get-caught!" exhilaration. If you're somewhere super-secluded, it will make for extra-connected sex, because the two of you will have nothing to concentrate on but each other and maybe some gorgeous stars above. Awww. If you're out of ideas, a few must-dos are on the beach, in the rain, at sunrise, and on a super-clear night where you can see stars for miles. And no matter what, you'll both be seeing stars.
Summer is a time to veg out, but also a time to reconnect to yourself and your relationships. In summer, everything is blooming, and your life should be included! Take advantage of the vivacious spirit of the season and really revitalize. Plus, you'll be relying on these memories once winter blows through again. Have a sexy summer.
