Some of the fondest memories grandchildren will cherish decades from now will be set in the outdoors, at play with their grandparents. Playing in the pool or at the beach. Jumping in the leaves. Sledding in the snow. Graduating from a tricycle, to scooter, and then two wheeler bikes. Going for walks and hikes. Family barbecues and picnics. Fishing, camping, and playing on the swings. Tossing the football and tackling pop-pop, or planting grandmom's special flower bulbs. Grandchildren love to play in the outdoors, and therein lies a special legacy opportunity for you...
The outdoors allows you to “connect” in special ways. Connect not only with your family but with the spirit and beauty of the earth, and our human experience.
There’s nothing like a spring day with the sun warming your face and the light cool breeze to melt away your stresses.
Today, the word “connected” has grown to take on new meaning…a word that connotes the rapid pace of technology and its growing incorporation into our lives. Cellphones, pagers, blackberries, internet, not to mention portable videogames & DVD players.
Not to mention television. As a child, TV in our house was black and white with rabbit ears. It had 9 channels (one called “U") and you needed a pair of pliers to change the dial!
Today, people pay thousands of dollars for high definition televisions. We have 5 remotes & surround sound audio. We subscribe to cable or satellite networks with several hundred channels and have DVRs that can record hundreds of hours of programming for watching on-demand.
While each of these are amazing technologies, they can stealthily rob you of the spiritual connection of the outdoors.
I’m guilty too. Like many of us, I have burned countless hours in front of the TV. And even on the beach with my family one day, I found myself peeking at the blackberry. Did any emails come in? Who cares!
Let’s turn it off!
Enjoy the natural rhythym of the outdoors. Feel your body relax and breath deeply. Feel the rejuvenation that simply “being” in the moment and enjoying God’s creation can do for you.
Yes, the Outdoors is a special & magical blessing in all of our lives. Plus, it’s free! And right outside that door.
Today, make me a promise. Go take a 10 minute walk outside and soak in the magic. Notice things you missed before. Connect.
Too cold? Raining? Great…bundle up or get your umbrella and do it!
Too tired? Even better…you will have more energy once you get outside.
Make a commitment to enjoy some outdoor time each day, every day…and your life will be truly improved.
Now think about our grandchildren growing up in today’s rapid-paced world. They need your coaching and guidance to discover the magic of the outdoors more than ever. For me, it was tough enough to avoid the 9 channels of TV in the 70’s…imagine the burden that the kids of today have to overcome to escape this trap?
How can you help them to avoid the addictive downside of today’s technology?
The outdoors are magic.Helping your children or grandchildren connect would be an incredible gift, and lasting legacy.
Think it through. Make a plan & put it into action today!
Below you’ll find plenty of ideas to get you on a path to build your Connect with the Outdoors legacy.
You'll find some really cool bike, pedal car, and scooter options...items your kids (or you) will need to provide the power. And, even some unique battery-powered vehicles.
Create an irresistible outdoor "magnet" to get your kids outside with some yard fun & games. Have you seen these inflatable systems available today? They're fantastic. Kids LOVE 'em and they are a breeze to set up. And, don't forget the more traditional playsets too!
Inspire your grandchild sports fanatic by supplying a wide variety of game equipment. You never know which one will be the favorite...and they'll likely love them all!
There's no better way to connect with the outdoors than to take up hiking, camping, or fishing. Introduce these amazing experiences into your grandchild's life.
And, if you have an electronic toy fan in the family, consider some great R/C and radio toys.
Have an idea what you're looking for and want a broad selection? Shop by product category and tap into thousands of choices.
And also, some great links to other website resources that offer outdoor recreation activities, ideas.
Green Hour.Org Family oriented website to encourage 1 hour of outdoor connection per day...loaded with useful ideas. Also has a Nature Finder page to enter your zipcode and quickly see all the local outdoor activities and parks!