When you're young there seems to be endless fun things to do outside. Games to play that aren't even really games, like twisting around a pole or blocking the way of bugs that are just walking around. And then of course, you have bikes and roller skates which are just for fun, not exercise. There was no pressure when using them to burn calories. It seems like even sitting around complaining there is nothing to do was more fun as a kid. And then you grow up and something changes...
I mean, sure there's games you can buy to play, like badminton, bocce, or even a frisbee, but those are all more fun with a group of people. I always prefer people who aren't too competitive. Honestly, it's a backyard game not the Olympics so calm down and let me call a Mulligan. But, on a Wednesday night after work when you happen to have a little extra time and the sun is still out what is there to do? Or how about on a lazy Sunday afternoon when you feel like being home and it's just so delightful outside?
I rent so I don't have yard work to do, not that I would consider yard work fun, but at least it's an outdoor activity. No pool here either or basketball hoop. I always feel like I shouldn't be wasting nice weather by sitting on my couch watching a movie or even doing the occasional chore around the house. I hear this voice somewhere in the depths of my psyche saying "It's so nice out, would be a shame to spend it inside. Why don't you go spend some time outside." And it just won't leave me alone. So, I think...but, if I go outside what am I going to do?
A few weeks ago I decided it was just too nice out, I would spend some time outside. I took a chair out onto the roof and my nail polishing supplies. I didn't want to just be sitting outside on the roof doing nothing but looking like a creep. I painted my nails and was sitting waiting for them to dry. I closed my eyes for 30 seconds and when I opened them a yellow jacket had landed on my shirt and started to build some spit nest thing on my chest. My nails are still wet and this stupid thing is too close to my face for me to feel comfortable. Oh AND I'm on the roof, so I need to be extra careful about thrashing around. I tried to coax him to move on by fuming him with the nail polish remover. It didn't even phase the little bastard. So I tried shimmying a bit. Nothing. I looked around helplessly for someone to help me. Nope that didn't work either. Damn, I was going to have to risk ruining my polish to catch this thing in a paper towel without getting stung in the face. I did what had to be done, then promptly went inside to have a beer, on my couch, in the air conditioning.
I've actually thought about turning my tv around so I can sit outside while watching. I would have something to do while getting a little outside time. I'm torn between 1)doing the right thing by being outside and getting harassed by bugs and pollen OR 2)feeding my addiction to air conditioning and Netflix instant play.
Life is full of difficult decisions.
