My friend Misty wrote a post called “Life Outside – Making Myself Responsible” where she challenges herself to take her son outside everyday.
I’ve decided to take up the challenge with her. During the summer, this was not something I had much trouble with, but this month, I’ve been kind of bad. Even though the weather has often been lovely, I haven’t felt like going anywhere. We’re expecting another baby in March and pregnancy makes me feel soooo tired.
Although I’m starting to feel a bit more energetic now that I’m in my 2nd trimester, the weather is not going to be making it more attractive for me to go outside as it gets colder.
I think outdoor play is so important for kids. I also think it makes it easier to care for them too. Way less mess to clean up, less to get into and they love it so much!
Today was the first day of our challenge and happily it was successful. We went for a walk to the grocery store (at which I was an impulsive sucker, buying a halloween cup, mini pumpkin, decorative corn and monkey stickers) and collected leaves and pinecones along the way.
Although the walk isn’t far, our neighborhood is VERY hilly. Getting to the store isn’t bad, but getting back is basically uphill the whole way. I had to take a lot of breaks. I have a feeling that perhaps there is some middle ground between doing nothing and trying to kill myself. Is it just me that has this problem?
We stopped off at a playground on the way home (Mama needed a break) and saw a woodpecker a couple blocks from home.
I’m sure most of our outdoor play won’t take all morning, especially when it gets cold, but I’m excited to try to keep it up and make it fun.
Anyone interested in taking the challenge too?
I’m in! I think this is a great idea. We go play outside nearly every day as it is, but I love a challenge. I think I’m going to start with a short term goal, ending the first day of Winter and see how long we can keep going after that. Unfortunately there are definitely days here that are too cold in the winter, but last year we didn’t have many. At the very least, I’m going to keep track of how many days in the year we go outside.
@Courtney Yay! I was just talking to Misty and we’re going to do the challenge until Dec 22. I have to agree with you about the weather. To me the phrase “there is no bad weather just bad clothing” does not apply to -30C. There is no level of clothing that can make that bearable much less fun to play outside. Even a cold rain here can really suck.
But I’m going to try to dress warm and go out at least for a little bit every day we can.
Ha! Being a hater of the cold, I have to agree that the phrase you mentioned always sounds ridiculous. I am never able to be warm no matter what I’m wearing on those frigid days and I’m not even talking -30C! I love that you guys are doing the challenge and I would love to add a link to your blogs on a new page I am working on if you would let me.
@Misty that would be totally fine with me 🙂
@Misty that’s fine with me too! I plan to blog about it later this week, but our official start date was Sept 23.
@Playground Snoop
Thanks Dana!
@Courtney
Awesome Courtney! Thanks for joining in, I have added you to the participant list.
Found you through Courtney’s blog. We’re in!