Enjoy the Great Outdoors This Summer

When you live in a climate where winter lasts until the Fourth of July summer is a gift. It is wonderful to be able to get outdoors and enjoy good weather, sunny days and all that nature provides. After a long winter it is refreshing to be able to breathe in the fresh air, absorb the scent of flowers and trees here in Maine.
It's exciting to see new life spring to existence and watch the animals begin to make their way out into the warmth for a respite after winter's chill. There is so much to do to soak in the energy that summer days out side can give to us.

Gardening There is absolutely no feeling on earth like burying my bare feet in the warm soil of a freshly plowed garden. I've done this since childhood. If you have never done it, I dare you to. Walk through that rich soil and plan where your vegetables will be planted this year. Gardening is good for the soul and the body with it's nourishment and exercise. A simple tub with a few seeds in it can be just as glorious if you do not have the land available for a garden plot. Enjoy the awesome renewal as you watch that little seedling break through the soil to begin it's growth.

Walk in the woods I've been blessed to live on a fairly large sized piece of land for most of my life. I can walk in the woods and enjoy the feel of being out of doors. I can hear a chorus of birds, smell the pine and see wild flowers along with the rare glimpses of wild animals in their element. I know I get to see things that others may never see. Deer, fox, moose and other creatures of the Maine woods are just outside my door. The invigorating walks in a woods, park or down a summer heated sidewalk are great exercise for any of us who have felt trapped in over the winter. It is a low budget or no cost adventure to just get out there and walk.

Climb a mountain, swim a sea It's been many years since I have tried to climb a mountain. Hills can be a challenge these days. (Those winter days have been too long.) There is so much outdoors for all of us to enjoy. It is important that we find favorite things outside to enjoy each summer day. Dance in the pouring rain like a child for a great boost of the spirit. Go swimming in the ocean, a lake or the community pool. Stretch those muscles and tone them up this summer. Go for a walk anywhere that is available to you. Soak up the sun while protecting your skin with a hat and sunscreen.

Outdoor games and activities As children my sisters and I could always find something to do outside. We rode bikes, climbed trees, waded at the town boat landing and played in the dirt. We even spent hours flinging the lids from large vegetable cans before we had Frisbees to play with. Adults can do variations of these activities. Get out those old Frisbees, croquet and horse shoe sets. Make a miniature golf course in your back yard and play with the kids or grandchildren. Use your imagination and re-use items that you have to set up new or old games to play with. (If you are inspired and make a million bucks on your outdoor game idea just remember who sparked your imagination. I love chocolate, hint, hint. That's why I am planning to start walking with my nieces this summer.) Get out the old kayak and prove to yourself that you can still paddle it down the river. Either that or give it to the neighbors and tell them to go for it. If nothing else, grab a chair and read a book out side.

Visit a State Park Thank the geniuses that saved land and provided us with state and national parks. Take time and visit the closest one to you. Enjoy the beauty of protected land and native trees or vegetation. Check out the bike and walking trails for an afternoon excursion. Take your dog and give him a good day out of doors with you if pets are allowed in the area.

There's been a lot of discouragement with job losses, tough economy issues and other cold wintry happenings this year. Get out side and melt some of that ice way. Revitalize your soul in the great outdoors this summer.