A huge congratulations to all of the island seniors who graduated on Saturday and are taking the next step in their lives, whatever it happens to be: work, school or a gap year. From those sticking close to home at the University of Washington, Tacoma Community College or other nearby schools, to those venturing across the state or into Canada, The Beachcomber wishes you all much success, happiness and good times. You graduates get the spiel.

So, at the risk of sounding like a broken record talking about the best way to go about your lives now, The Beachcomber is instead offering advice to those who are staying put on this quaint island to continue their lives here. Summer began on Monday, and the island is ripe to become crowded with tourists, so here are some pointers about how to deal with everything from heat waves, to crowds, to the dreaded ferries.

1) Be polite to ferry workers: The ferries have been more than the usual headache recently due to attempts to change loading procedures at Fauntleroy and reduced capacity when boats are removed for maintenance. The tourism season will mean the ferry commutes will not become any easier, but the workers on the dock have nothing to do with the decisions made by the Washington State Ferries officials at their office in Seattle. The dock workers do what they are trained and told to do; they do not make major decisions. So fill out your feedback forms and submit them to the relevant parties. It will accomplish more than yelling at the ticket scanner.

2) Get outside: Islanders are usually pretty great about understanding the importance of getting outside and the peace that comes with it, so get out and enjoy the surroundings. The country’s southwest states are boiling in temperatures in excess of 120 degrees, so take those 75-degree days with gusto, jump into the sound, paddle a board or kayak or take a stroll through the woods and enjoy our meteorological blessings.

3) Take care of yourself: While the winter months bring darkness and many suffer from depression, the summer brings sunshine, warmth and positivity. Take advantage of the motivation and healthful feelings that come with it and take up yoga, running, bicycling, dance or just make a goal to eat healthy. By the time winter comes around again, you’re guaranteed to feel better than last year.