A few weeks ago, I was just getting into the swing of spring and all it’s sunshine, but the last few weeks haven’t been the loveliest outdoor weather. It seems like it should be a little warmer by this time of year, but I’m not complaining — sun is just around the corner. Soon, it will be warm, sunny and hopefully not too humid.
Since it’s not quite 100 degrees outside yet, savor the beginning of summer while you can. Here are five things to do outside this summer:
1. Walk — Since the weather forecast says next week is going to be in the mid- to high-60s, there’s no better walking weather than that. Nothing is more simple, beautiful and pleasant than walking along a path with blue skies above and green grass below.
Take a walk in your neighborhood or another neighborhood in town. There are many pathways and trails in Newton, like the one by the stadium or at the arboretum. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many beautiful places to take a walk in the great outdoors, like Mariposa Park or the Jacob Krumm Nature Preserve.
2. Golf — Iowa is blessed with rolling hills, and for myself, there’s no better sight on a early evening in summer than my feet on bright green grass as far as the eye can see and the sun setting off to the west.
If you know how to golf, then lucky you. You can truly appreciate this being on the list, but if you’re not that good, than it’s still a sport I recommend.
I grew up at Westwood Golf Course, and it’s a place of fond memories with family and friends. I still know every hill, tree and water hazard on the course. If you haven’t played in awhile, dust off the clubs and go out one weekend or evening after work. You’ll be glad you did. If you’re new to the game, just hitting the practice range is a good time. Besides, it’s a lot less expensive.
3. Disc Golf — If you like the idea of golfing but need to settle for a different activity, then disc golf is the sport for you.
It’s much cheaper than golf, and it’s still as challenging.
I discovered the leisure sport of disc golf after living in Ames, but something I never knew growing up was that Newton has two of the most terrific disc golf courses in the state at Maytag Park and Woodland Park, both of which well-respected among avid disc golfers.
4. Grill — Steaks. Chicken. Hamburgers. Corn. Kabobs. If you don’t have a grill at home, then you should get one, but even then, you can grill in many city and state parks.
Whether you’re on the patio, deck or yard, grilling is the best way to prepare food, especially with friends or family. You can not only have the best meal of the week, but also the best time just visiting as well.
5. Spectate — Sometimes just being outdoors is half the fun, so why not just watch other people do all the work? There are many opportunities to watch spectator sports, such as soccer, softball or baseball.
Going to an Iowa Cubs game at Principal Park is always a fun time, but so is going to a high school baseball or softball game.
Supporting the Cardinals is a lot of fun, especially when the game is close. You can take the family and share some popcorn and cheer on the big hits or outs because those kids really give it their all.
