When Is It Not A Good Time To Go Outdoors?

Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet. - Bob Marley

There is almost no time that it isn’t a good time to get outdoors. Really. 95% of the time, weather isn’t an excuse.

I am an educator and one of my favorite parts of what I do is that I get to chaperone an annual camping trip of sixth graders. For four days. In January. In New Jersey. What?! That doesn’t sound like the opportunity of a lifetime to you? Four days with several dozen adolescents in sub-freezing temperatures? Let me tell you, it is AWESOME! And, one of my favorite quotes comes from my good friend and colleague who runs the trip, Mr. Scott who preaches “There is no such thing as bad weather, only poor clothing choices.”

Getting outdoors in less-than-perfect weather is like an adventure sandwich. When you first step out into the rain/cold/wind/heat, the only thing you can think about is the discomfort (first slice of bread). Once you settle into the conditions and accept that they are just part of the experience, the adventure can really begin (the condiments). I can guarantee you that while you are hiking, climbing, biking, or exploring, you will completely forget that you are wet or cold or sweating, and you may even have more fun because of the unpredictable elements. You get to jump in puddles, or have a snowball fight or run through a sprinkler (the meat). And, when the discomfort creeps back in and you are thinking more about frozen toes or dehydration than about the beauty and adventure around you, it is time to finish that sandwich with the second slice of bread and head back to the comfort indoors.

Didn’t think you were hungry for an outdoor adventure today, did you? You’re welcome.