| Watching the sun rise or set is one of the best natural wonders and does miracles for rejuvenating spirits.
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| Add a little twist to your summer routine with these six fun outdoor ideas!
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Check out the local farmers' market. If you haven't visited your local farmers' market, you're probably missing out on some of the best produce around. And farmers' markets are more than just ears of corn; you can often find artisan cheeses, baked goods, beautiful flowers and crafts. Finding a local farmers' market near you is easy. Visit localharvest.org, enter your ZIP code and choose the market closest to home!
Catch a sunrise or sunset. Watching the sun rise or set is one of the best natural wonders and does miracles for rejuvenating spirits. Sit at the beach, stroll to the park or watch from an open meadow; getting a little ways out of town can pay off big with a first-rate view.
Plan a family picnic. Picnics don't have to be fancy; even pulling through a drive-thru and taking your lunch to a park is a great start. Keep a blanket in the trunk of your car to be picnic-ready, anytime. For another idea, simply put your dinner on paper plates, grab a blanket and bring the feast outside. To make a truly memorable family affair, select a local park that's new to you a week in advance — this gives more time for anticipation. Pick up a few special food items at the grocery store, such as string cheese, grapes, granola bars or yogurt raisins. Tuck these into a basket with sandwiches and drinks and you’re good to go.
Become a field expert. Learning and the outdoors can go hand in hand; all you need is a subject of interest! Pick up a guide to plants and trees, birds or bugs and become an expert on the great outdoors. Also, check your local parks and recreation centers for free guided nature and garden walks.
Try badminton, bocce ball or croquet. Perfect for weekends or fun family nights, these outdoor games are great for various ages and fitness levels. Play one-on-one or with a large group — fire up the grill and invite your friends and neighbors for an afternoon tournament.
Scavenge the neighborhood. It’s easy to make a scavenger hunt. Simply write out a list of items that would be available in your region at this time of year. Include easy items such as a stick, a flower, a garden tool, a ball, a garden glove, an acorn and a pebble. Also include more challenging items such as a rock with a fossil, a feather, a shell or a key. (You may have to plant some items in advance.) Give your kids a bucket to carry their finds and they’re off. A hug makes a great prize, or perhaps the winner could get an extra story at bedtime.
Brought to you by Health Expressions®
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