After what was a rather splendid week of getting outside, this third week of my One Hour Outside challenge has proved a whole lot more difficult. I mean, I’ve done it – just – but it has been a real effort and not particularly photogenic.
This week sums up why my One Hour Outside campaign is important. After a week off with plenty of time to do my own thing, I started a new job on Monday and have therefore been in the office and busy learning new things rather than concentrating on fun outdoors focused adventures. It’s been a good week, a new start, but one that has not provided much opportunity for long walks in the autumn sunshine or trips to the seaside to make sure the sea is still there.
A Dr Martens shoefie one rainy lunchtime.
I’ve always been taught to concentrate on what I have done rather than what I haven’t, so let’s turn this around. And I have managed One Hour Outside every day, which is at least something. Those minutes have generally been taken at lunch time – walking around town, running a few errands, finding a new coat (my fab birthday present). Add to that a handful of appointments that have meant a walk between buildings and the walk to and from my car at work and that pretty much sums it up. I have made a point of not sitting in my office at lunch time even though it has been mostly cold, damp and dark in the day – we had a freak hail storm one day but thankfully I was safely on the right side of the window when it came.
New woodland at Jenny’s Wood near Boston, Lincolnshire.
To counter all that, on Saturday we had a lovely walk with family around Jenny’s Wood near Boston in Lincolnshire. Only recently planted, this area of land has been created for people and wildlife to enjoy. It’s brilliant – currently a meadow, soon to be woodland (with a community orchard, I noticed, what a great idea). I can’t wait to see what it looks like in a few years when the trees have taken over a little, we shall definitely be back to see it grow. The week might not have been too outdoorsy, but it’s good to make a special effort at the weekend.
So… How is your own One Hour Outside challenge going? I’m still enjoying your shares over on twitter and instagram using the hashtag #OneHourOutside keep them coming!. Has anyone been using the printable record sheet with your family? I’d love to see a snap of it so far if you are!
And if you’re not already following me over on instagram, I’d love to make friends over there – I’m certain there will be plenty more outdoors photos posted there this month.
If you need some inspiration, check out my 50 Things To Do Outside in November post. Want to know why you should take part in the challenge? Here are some Benefits of Getting Outside. Basically, stop just thinking about it, or making excuses, and just join in with the challenge starting now. Your time outside is time well spent. Go enjoy!