Try Pinhole Photography
Random enough for you? I have to admit, this is more my husband’s hobby than mine. However, I have spent many lazy days with him scouting out photo-worthy landscapes. I have fallen in love with the process.
There is a craft to a pinhole photograph and the resulting capture is always a surprise. Taking the time to work an art at its most basic roots is satisfying in the deepest way possible.
You don’t even need to focus solely on photography. There are many other arts that can be transported to the outdoors.
Painting and writing are other favorites of mine — the main goal is just to allow nature in as a muse.
Grab Your Favorite Book and Read
There is no place in the world I would rather read than sitting next to the river near my house, under the ash tree. The leaves allow the perfect amount of light to filter through and my mind can drift away from all of my daily stresses, both physical and emotional.
Nothing beats a great book, in a perfect place, with the birds singing their tune in the background.
Do a Little Gardening
What would spring be without a beautiful garden? Gardening is another activity that can be easily curtailed to your abilities and surroundings.
The size can range from a small planter in your window to a large, intricate masterpiece that covers acres and acres of land. I keep my sights low: I have two small gardens in the front of my house.
I had been planning a quarter acre of raised beds, but that was before this relapse. While I am a bit sad to miss out on all the bounty of vegetables I had planned, however, I am happy to settle for some gorgeous flowers and herbs instead.
Go Fishing
We are not naturally good fishermen in our household. I love catching a rainbow trout now and again, but my preference is to go crabbing. We spent many days out in Washington State throwing crab nets off the dock.
I have to be honest, I cannot remember if we crabbed in the spring while we were there — I forget when the season opens. It is just that every day felt like spring out in Seattle and I really miss eating that Dungeness crab.
Visit Local Farmer’s Markets
Farmer’s markets are really taking hold across the country — and for great reason too! Going to your local farmer’s market is a wonderful way to buy local produce and also socialize with your community.
This activity is laidback and can be enjoyed at any pace, with anyone you want to spend your Saturday morning with. I love to grab a cup of coffee and wander around aimlessly, taking in all the town chatter, while basking in the piles of produce and flowers everywhere.
Plan a Camping Trip
Camping is great because it gives you an excuse to buy lots of gear. You could be a lightweight packer, like my husband, but I prefer to camp in comfort.
I am one of those who enjoys driving up to my campsite. However, hiking, climbing, and even canoeing up to your favorite spot (if you are able to), are also fantastic ways of creating a trip that is perfect for you.
Go Boating, Kayaking or Canoeing Down a River
I am one of those people who would be on the water year-round if it were possible. I think I was a whale in a prior life. All kidding aside, nothing is better than getting out on the open water and basking in the sunlight!
