Many families only enjoy their backyards during the warmer months, and feel like they are stuck inside the house on cool winter days. Spending time outdoors is great for your body and mind. Here are some ways to get outside the house this winter, and enjoy the outdoors in all types of weather.
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Build a Bonfire
Campfires aren’t just fun during the summer months. You may need to bundle up a little more, but you can still build a bonfire in your backyard in the winter. Invite a few friends over to roast hot dogs and make s’mores. Heating water on the fire to make hot chocolate is also fun. Telling stories or singing songs around the campfire is a great way to bond when the weather is chilly.
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Eat Dinner on Your Deck
It is common for people to use their outdoor furniture during the summer, but it doesn’t have to be put away just because the weather has gotten chillier. Everyone can bundle up and enjoy eating together outside for a change of scenery. A custom deck builder can make sure yours stays out of the wind and snow. You can also put up a little insulation with a tent or gazebo for a fun night out in the winter air.
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Go for a Walk
Watching the seasons change is fascinating. Go for a walk in the same area at least once per month and see how many changes you can spot. There are likely to be differences in the trees and vegetation as the weather changes. The type of animals you see outdoors may also change with the seasons. Even if you live in the city, it is fun to look at window displays in the stores and notice the decorations in people’s yards as different holidays approach.
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Go Ice Skating or Snow Shoeing
Ice skating outdoors is a fun adventure. Some cities have indoor ice arenas that are open year-round. Others have outdoor arenas that are only open during the winter. You can usually rent skates inexpensively, and spend the afternoon practicing your balancing skills as you whirl around on the ice. Lessons are available at most ice rinks if you are unfamiliar with skating. You can also rent snow shoes and trek through fields and parks. You can probably go snow shoeing at many of the same places that you take walks or hikes during the warmer months.
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Have a Snowball Fight
Snowball fights aren’t just for kids. Bundle up and divide your family into teams for an evening snowball fight. You can teach your kids how to build a structure to hide behind to protect yourselves from the other team’s snowballs. You can also show your kids how to build an igloo or snow fort if you live in an area where there is enough snow to build a fort that you can fit the whole family in.
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Shovel Snow
Shoveling snow is a necessity in many areas. It can also be a way to serve others. Get into the spirit of the season and help those in need. Bundle up and shovel snow for family members or neighbors who are unable to shovel the snow themselves. You can also bring them a basket with cookies and hot chocolate to brighten their day.
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Take Pictures
Whether you’re admiring the snow-covered mountains in the distance, or making snow angels in the front yard, winter is a beautiful time of year. You can capture the beauty of the season by having each member of your family take outdoor pictures. Have fun admiring the outdoors through the eyes of each family member. You can even make a calendar or scrapbook using the photos you have taken.
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Look for Outdoor Events
Almost every area has community events that are only held during the winter. There may be tree-lighting ceremonies, caroling, nature walks, and other events you can attend with your family. Most communities have a website where you can view a monthly calendar of events.
It’s easier for most people to think of ways to be active outdoors when the weather is warm, but it’s important to make the effort to get outdoors during the colder months too. You may think that your yard is most beautiful during the summer, but spending more time enjoying it when it’s chilly will help you see the beauty in it all year long.
