Even before Thanksgiving the onslaught of Christmas sales had begun. The real “reason for the season” is sometimes lost in a world of commercialism.
Escape the holiday traffic. Escape commercials, computers and smart phones. Escape the nightly news and politicians. Escape for just a little while and get outdoors away from it all.
The sun rising over the water or woods, an eagle flying in a bright blue sky or a deer happening by your secret hiding place is better than any TV show. The sounds of geese flying overhead, bird songs and chattering squirrels are better than the sounds of crowded stores of shoppers. Hiking a trail is better than sitting in traffic.
I know it’s cold but the fish are still there under the water waiting and they can still be caught. Even if they aren’t biting, the outdoors is a natural stress reliever. If you’re a hunter deer seasons are still going on in most states as is squirrel, rabbit, waterfowl and upland game.
December is a great time to hike. The leaves are gone allowing you to see things you can’t at other times. It’s also a great time to camp if you dress properly and prepare yourself for the cold. You can’t worry or fret when you’re sitting around a campfire
Christmas is about gifts and that all started when wise men brought them to a baby in a manger. Gifts don’t all have to be store bought or all the online stuff the retail world says everybody wants for Christmas. You can give the same gift to a child, grandchild, or friend that someone gave to you long ago – the gift of the great outdoors.
Have a very Merry Outdoor Christmas!