I know I shouldn’t complain about the cold. After all, other parts of the country are facing blizzards. Nevertheless, I’m ready for spring. I’m ready to stop using my electric blanket (yes, I am a wimp), stop wearing a jacket, and stop having my fingers cold all the time. I’m sure my teenage sons are ready for me to stop driving them to school in my pink bathrobe. (I’m saving now for their therapy sessions)
The weather report shows we might be headed into warmer weather next week, and I’m ready for it!
As we move into a new season, I always find myself ready for some changes. I’m ready to fill my hanging baskets with pansies, clean my windows and put out a decorative flag in my garden. The spring cleaning bug is hitting.
It’s also the time when I think about getting outside more with my family. Knowing how short this beautiful spring season really is, I want to make the most of it. For today’s post, I want to share some ideas for getting outside with friends and family and enjoying God’s beautiful creation.
Here are some suggestions on things to do outside:
Hiking: We’ve got some great hiking paths around town. I encourage you to do some research and discover a new trail. Two of our family favorites are the White Tanks and South Mountain. You can read about some local hiking trails on the Phoenixgovernment site. http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikemain.html I also recommend buying travel guides. We have one that lists 100 best Arizona hikes. We bought it years ago when our children were small, and it is still good today.
Picnics: What could be more fun than a Saturday or Sunday afternoon picnic? Invite some friends, set up a grill and have a cookout. If you’ve never been to Encanto Park in central Phoenix, I encourage you to check it out. It’s got a lake, a small amusement park and lots of grass. It will give you a taste of old-time Phoenix. Or, visit Papago Park by the zoo.
Desert drives: One of my favorite places to drive to is the Cavecreek/Carefree area. I love the desert around there, and it’s always fun to get out for an ice cream cone, and a walk around some interesting shops.
Zoo: Don’t forget the Phoenix Zoo or the World Wildlife Zoo.
Horseback Riding: Although it’s just a trail ride, there are many places to ride horses around Phoenix. Do an Internet search to find some. Last year we did one around Arizona State University. The corral is just off the 202 and Rural.
Now it’s your turn. Please post your favorite thing to do outside. I’d love to hear if there are any farmer’s markets or festivals you can recommend, or any other fun way to experience our beautiful state.
With “warmest” wishes,
Glynnis Whitwer
Our family enjoys driving to Prescott just for the day. We hike Thumb Butte Park and then stop at one of their cute (and yummy) restaurants near the downtown area. The downtown plaza usually has something going on on Saturdays.
I’ve been taking advantage of hiking at Thunderbird Mtn. park. As anxious as I am for winter to be over, I’m not looking forward to summer when the only option is to hike at 5:00 am or find an alternative. Somehow walking the mall isn’t nearly as exciting as being out of doors admiring God’s handiwork! Thanks for sharing!