I hate to admit it, but I find myself contributing to this condition with my own kids sometimes. Not only do I love the outdoors, but I also love gadgets, so they have their iPods, Xbox, Wii, etc. With all these distractions I notice a huge difference in their behavior when they’re stuck indoors vs spending time outdoors.
Even something as simple as a hike at a nearby park or bike ride in the field behind our house with the kids results in a huge change in attitude. I can see the enjoyment in their face, and they just behave differently in general.
I’m more in tune with this now that they’re growing older, so I make more of an effort to get out with them. This weekend we’ll be camping in the Oregon wilderness, away from cell phones, computers, iPods, etc. I can’t wait to get outside and do as you suggest…lean up against a tree, close my eyes, and take it all in.
