Winter is just dragging on and on at this point. We are all waiting to hit the beach, get a tan, and escape from the irrational workload that Stony Brook presents to us.

The summer is by far the best time of the year.

The days are longer, and we are able to engage in many outdoor activities that would otherwise be difficult. There is no other time that you can go swimming, or play backyard sports. Even a simple walk or bike ride is more enjoyable without the harsh cold air piercing your skin.

Barbecues are one of the main highlights of the summer season and there is no other time to make that kind of great food.

Along with ice-cream and watermelon, the delightful “summertime treats” are much more satisfying than food at any other time.

Summer is more cheerful than the gray days of winter; leaves return, the grass is green, and everything is pretty much alive. You feel a burst of energy that wasn’t there during the depressing days of winter.

There is no battling the winter conditions to shovel snow, no slipping on black ice caused by overnight freezing temperatures and there is no need to bundle up under layers of clothing; the summertime calls for simple apparel that can easily be thrown on.

You know you just can’t wait for the time when you can take those sandals and flip-flops out from the back of your closet.