Fridays with Franky: Winter and the Outdoors
Happy Friday everyone! It’s Franky the camp dog, and I have spent the past week up here at WeHaKee in Winter, WI. This is my favorite place to be! Though I wish the campers could be here with me, I still have been making the best of being surrounded by nature.
Maybe you are like me, and live somewhere where it gets cold (very cold) in the winter months. Or maybe you are lucky like our counselors and campers from the southern hemisphere and skip your winter by coming to WeHaKee… lucky ducks!
In the spirit of being at camp and wanting to be outside all the time, here are some ways you can enjoy the outdoors regardless of the chilly weather!
Be Prepared
Have you ever heard the saying, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing?” It’s true, time outdoors will be vastly improved if you bundle up! Start from the inside out and make sure everything from your socks to your hat are nice and thick, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. Cover as much skin as possible if the temperature is below freezing. Invest in good shoes that don’t pinch your toes… your circulation is what will keep you warm!
Bring a little magic
Make going outside special. Put your favorite hot drink in a thermos and bring it along to keep you warm. Wear a funny hat and take pictures out in the snow or other pretty winter scene! If it gets dark early where you live, have a glow stick party on a walk or in the backyard.
Go somewhere
Are you getting cabin fever, but can’t imagine going for a walk in the cold weather? It helps to have a destination in mind. Keep your mind trained on where you are going and the cold is a little more bearable. Maybe a lights display for the holidays, or a favorite coffee shop? The walk will be worth it if you have something to walk to!
Move around
Get your blood pumping to keep warm! Hula hoop in the snow, go ice-skating, go sledding, play tag, or just run around. You will feel toasty in no time!
Appreciate the weather!
Autumn and winter bring unique experiences no matter where you live. Summer does not have to be the only time you are outside a lot! If you feel yourself getting down about the weather, try writing a letter to a camp friend who lives somewhere completely different to you. Write down everything you like about where you live, including the winter activities. Maybe you can convince them to visit!
And before you know it… I’ll see you at camp!
