Go Outside!

So, as many people know, I hate to be indoors. My teachers grew weary of my constant nagging to have class outdoors. And the problem with me was that I didn't only like to go outside when it was sunny and 70 degrees. I love thunderstorms, cloudy days and being out in the rain. For me, pretty much any day is a good to be outside. I am actually kind of looking forward to the 2 mile bike trip, twice a day, two times a week, across campus this fall (plus on Sundays to go to church) just because I get to get outdoors. I wish I had more time in between classes so I could walk some times, but I would be in quite a rush.
I have done a little bit of research on how children spend much less time outdoors than they used to and I stumbled upon an interesting article on the National Wildlife Federation's website that gives some basic facts about the time spent outdoors by children. It is astonishing. Getting outside is one of the best ways for kids to learn about their surroundings, to expand their imagination, and to be physically active. Check out the National Wildlife Federation's website for their campaign Why Be Out There? which encourages families to get outside and has statistics and scientific data to back up their claims.
I have decided that when I am not a poor college student and have a little spare time to burn, I am going on the greatest outdoor adventure. I have a never-ending list of things I would like to do on this trip, which will most likely occur out west where they have lots of these activities in close proximity. My current itinerary includes:

• white water rafting
• hiking in the National Parks
• rock climbing in the Rockies
• kayaking
• running
• biking
• sailing

I am very excited for this "Ultimate Outdoor Excursion" and would love to have people join me. I think it would be lots of fun! 

Half Marathon Update: If you just began reading my blog, you might not know that I am running a half marathon in just over a month (the Capital City River Run Half Marathon in Lansing). I did my longest run yet yesterday, 10 miles, and will work up to 12 or 13 before tapering for a week or two. I am going to do some sort of speed work tomorrow, but am still unsure as to what that will be since I haven't done much speed work  and none recently. It could be very interesting...