Enjoying the Great Outdoors
Published: 03/18/2011 at Richard Gonzalez
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I'm not quite sure exactly where I stand when it comes to seeking out some Zen-filled action. I have fears of heights, so possibly throwing myself out of a plane would be more torturous then heart-pumping excitement. But, I do like the outdoors - just in a more 'sit down and read about the next guy’s thrills' type of way.
So, what exactly is it that I do when I want to get some outdoor fun and stretch the limits of my adventure seeking self? Glad you asked.
Camping. Growing up in the city there really wasn’t that many places to get out and sleep under the stars, but I have done my share of star gazing while enjoying a cup of warm chocolate milk. Although it might not sound too adventurous on the surface, some parks can be breath taking. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is one such place. Having gone there when I was younger, the memory has stayed with me throughout the years. The wild life that shares your sleeping quarters is proof enough that this will get your blood moving.
Skiiing. I have enjoyed sports my whole life...both playing them and watching them. Skiing, much like golf is one of those activities that I just can't seem to enjoy watching other people doing it. Thankfully I have never seriously been injured (only my pride one time when I couldn't exit the ski lift properly and had the conductor stop the whole lift for me to get off). I have not had the pleasure yet in skiing out west, but in the Northeast I have tackled some great mountains in both New Hampshire and Vermont.
Surfing. This has to be one the most fun things that I have ever done in my life. Granted, I barely stayed on the long board for 5 seconds, but wiping out was even great fun. Even the paddling out wasn't as bad as some regulars mentioned to me that it would be. You do need to be in some good physical condition - which may explain why I could only stay up on the board for no more then 5 seconds. I'm sure that the surfing is amazing out in California or in Hawaii, but for a first timer like myself, the waves in Florida where perfect. Think of it like bunny slopes...but it sure plants a bug in you that is hard to ignore.
Snorkeling. I know that scuba diving might be a better way to explore the under world, but snorkeling doesn't cost you hundreds of dollars in certifications and equipment. I will definitely try scuba diving later on in my adventure seeking career, but for now, hovering on the shallow side of the water will have to do. I have done this in some of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean and have left with a collection of photographs that adorn my house.
This is certainly a short list of things that most adventure seekers have already experienced in greater capacities. For those of us rookies that have arrived late to this particular game, it does serve as a good wading pool of activities – just enough to get your feet wet.
