Well, two things are becoming harder and harder to deny - first, the Commodores are a force, and second, summer doesn't last forever. But I want to argue that you don't have to let go just yet, checking in that carefree summer spirit for a carefree winter diet of buttery pancakes and honey-soaked fudge brownies. By all means, cling to these waning summer hours like a socially inept freshman to their high school relationship. There's still two weeks before you come back from fall break and have to own up to the fact that there's now no excuse for you to own a pair of crocs.

So how can you seize the most enjoyment from this last gasp of "freedom?" Well, first of all, stop going to class. When was the last time you enjoyed a really competitive game of beach volleyball in your chem lab? Also, for you girls and some of your more self-conscious, "Notebook"-loving guys, you can be those two or three people stretched out on Alumni Lawn, wearing an awkwardly small amount of clothing while hundreds of your classmates walk by. This may be interrupted by casual sports play, but this is merely an opportunity in disguise. If you're lucky enough, you might happen to catch one of the games of reclusive, widely unathletic students who take Ultimate Frisbee way too seriously. The good news here is that you're already wearing the appropriate amount of clothing for this sweaty, public contest.

Another suggestion is to go over to the pool and use it. Some may be shocked to hear we actually have a pool. It's in the Rec Center, and although there's a depressingly small number of Marco Polo games going on, you can always bring those little rings you have to dive down to get, or an inflated ball, or get down with some old-fashioned chicken fighting. While you're there, don't forget to actually work out. Although swimming or simply walking to and from the Rec can be positive, you'll feel healthier the rest of the day and lingering on through the week if you even walk into the workout room. Otherwise, you might feel like it's been a wasted trip when workout motivation may be hard to come by. If you do feel this way, just imagine the motivation level when it's 30 degrees colder and you can hide that upper arm fat under sweatshirts.

So, you've just gotten back from the Rec and work is not topping your list of priorities. So get some ice cream! After all, you've earned it, and your frozen sweet tooth is not going to be as active in a few months. Or if you want to take it a step healthier, check out the new Yogurt Oasis - yeah, you girls thought you were the only ones who knew about that. Another goal is to take advantage of relaxing outdoors. Go to Centennial Park, smoke on top of Furman, whatever you like. Last but not least: Wear your shorts and T-shirts. This might seem obvious, but I can already sense the slew of girls eagerly waiting to rock the consistently unappealing combination of athletic shorts or skirts with tights.

Justin Poythress is a senior in the College of Arts and Science. He can be reached at j.poythress@vanderbilt.edu.