It’s never too early to think about what you’re going to do in the summer. The weather is better, the days are longer, and everything is open. There are so many places to go, so many things to do and try, it’s easy to think of yourself like a kid in a candy store – helplessly (but wonderfully) lost. Here are some things to try when you’re done packing the winter clothes away.
Get Out!
Since inclement weather is no longer a problem, summer is a great way to discover (or re-discover) why the great outdoors are really great. There’s nothing like getting away from traffic and crowds and going on an invigorating hike. You don’t have to climb mountains or rough it out for nights – a simple nature walk will stretch your legs, work up a decent sweat, and make for a great change of scenery after being stuck indoors for the winter.
Help Out
If you want to get out of the house, but don’t fancy something quite as vigorous as a wilderness walk, there are always things closer to home. Volunteer activities cover a wide range of options: helping out at a soup kitchen, a retirement home, or even at a pet shelter. People (and animals) always need help, and there are many charitable organizations that would love an extra pair of hands to ensure folks have a good meal, and pets can find a good home.
Who’s a Good Dog?
Maybe you don’t want to do all that work involved, but you know someone who does. If your dog is bored, he or she could become a therapy dog, spending time at children’s hospitals, care facilities and retirement homes. A good temperament is an obvious must, and there are qualifications necessary before certification is awarded. But if your dog is selected, there’s no telling how much joy he or she can bring to those who may miss the comfort and companionship of man’s best friend.
Play Ball!
Every one of us has watched our favorite sports team from the comfort of our home and berated the coach for making absurd choices and calls. Well, summer is your chance to do something about that. Probably not on a professional level, but it’s a great time to try your hand at coaching. Volunteers are “the backbone of youth sports in America”, says the National Alliance for Youth Sports. Whether it’s baseball, soccer or basketball, there are always kids who want to learn and play, and summer is the perfect chance to help.
Enjoy It While It Lasts
So, whatever your fancy – hiking, volunteering, coaching sports, or seeing the smiles on people’s faces when your dog enters the room – this summer will have plenty of activities to keep you entertained and productive without having to stray too far from home. The exotic adventures at the Vuyani Lodge will still be there next year.
