Now that winter is in full force it is time to spend as much time outside as possible. Last week I was sitting on my bed with my two kids and I looked up the outside temperature. It was 70 degrees!! I quickly jumped up, grabbed my kids and we went outside. It was the best decision I made that day. This is my fourth winter here in the Phoenix area and I still have to remind myself that I need to take advantage of the beautiful winter weather. I love lists and so I came up with a list of ideas to remind me to get outside more. I have decided to share it with you today.
Make a list of five things you like to do. Once you have your list figured out, think about how you can do those things outside. If you like to go shopping, head out to San Tan Mall. If you like to do art, grab a sketch book and head to the nearest park. If you like to go to the gym, skip it and go for a run. If you like to read, grab a book and sit in your back yard.
Make time. Our schedules are busy and they are filling up faster than we can write everything down. Make time to fit in a morning walk by yourself or with a friend. Spend half of your lunch break just sitting outside. Enjoy some fresh air while your girls are at dance practice. Be the master of your time. (Michelle already shared some great tips!)
Try something new. Head out on a family hike at South Mountain. If you don’t own bikes, try to borrow or rent some for a quick trip to get some froyo. Explore downtown Mesa or Chandler and try a new restaurant.
Eat outside. Whether it be lunch or dinner, at home or out, move your meal outside. If you’re at home use paper plates and grab a blanket to sit on. It might sound like extra work, but it can be easy if you plan ahead. When eating out at restaurants, ask to sit outside.
Remember August. If nothing else works, remember this past August and your utility bill from running the A/C full blast. That should help!
What other ways do you like to enjoy the outdoors during winter in Arizona? Does your family like to be outside? What other tips do you have?
