Addy's Corner

This past week was Spring Break. I thoroughly needed a break from school and stress, and that's exactly what I did. My mom and I went to Lido Beach and stayed at my step-grandparents' condo on the ocean. The location of their condo is amazing: not only is it oceanfront, but it's also a mile or so from downtown. Every morning, I would walk downtown, grab a coffee and walk back. This would always set the tone for the day, productive yet relaxing — more on the relaxing side. The rest of the day would be spent outside. Two of the days, my mom and I went to Siesta Key, which is absolutely gorgeous. The first day we went to Siesta, my friend from club volleyball texted me out of nowhere and said we were on the same beach. So, of course, we met up and caught up for a while. I learned she attends Hope College and is studying political science. She wants to go into the Peace Corps after she graduates. After the beach, my mom and I would go inside and clean up after being in the sun ...

  This week, my brain is officially checked out. This week has felt like the same day over and over again. Today, I finally had a mental breakdown. I tend to overstress myself and let everything fester until I explode. Although not a traditionally good way to deal with stress, it works for the meantime for me. I'm still figuring it out. But, this upcoming week, I am ready for a break. My mom and I are going to Sarasota, Florida. My grandpa Stephens lives on a key in the area; however, we're staying at his beach house. Last year, we were able to do this, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My mom and I go for walks each morning in the nearby town. By the time we get back, it's beginning to get warm out, and we change to go out to the beach. Then, we make up some cute, fruity water for the beach and layout. When I say this, I mean I’m laying straight into the sun, practically begging to get burnt, while my mom has on 50 SPF and is in the shade. I live by one motto, and one motto onl...