5 Winter Activities To Beat Stir-Craziness

Winter weather can be as unpredictable as the twists and turns of a rollercoaster. Just as you don't know which direction the next turn on the rollercoaster is coming from, it can be hard to predict what each new winter day will bring. In the beginning of winter, we anticipate the first snowfall and are elated when it finally comes. The middle of winter brings disgust as we watch the white snow turn to grey slush on the side of the road, and finally restlessness settles in as the winter weather lasts clear until May. 

Because of all this uncertainty it's easy to justify staying inside when we aren't obligated to leave the house. Be honest, who actually wants to go out in the cold? Not me! I'd much rather be sitting at home wearing sweats, and watching TV while wrapped in a fluffy blanket. Regardless of how we feel, we can't stay inside all winter. This behavior is bound to lead to a bit of stir-craziness. So, if you bundle up, here are 5 winter activities guaranteed to get you out of the house and actually enjoying the winter weather! 

 1. Snowmobiling

I'm fairly new to this sport, but it can be tons of fun! Functioning similar to an ATV, these machines are meant to take you anywhere snow is located. Snowmobiling is a great day activity that is best enjoyed with a group of friends/family. There are many snowmobile rental places located around the United States.

GoSnowmobiling is a great place to start to see snowmobile rental locations in your State. 

2. Hot Springs

Hot springs are like nature's free hot tubs. Now is the best time to visit the hot springs because of the contrast between the cold winter air, and the hot pool. When you go, don't forget shoes that can get wet, towels, and blankets for when you get out. Remember, it's still winter out there! 

Check out Macaroni Kid's list of hot spring destinations to find a hot spring near you! 

3. Ice Castles

These castles are a must-see for any winter adventurer out there! The castles are man-made from ice and snow. These attractions offer light shows, fountains, caves & tunnels, fire pits, and many other hidden secrets for you to explore. 

Visit their website here to see a list of locations near you! 

4. Snowshoeing

When you're thinking of winter activities, this isn't the idea that automatically comes to mind. To some, you might think that putting on snow shoes, and WALKING AROUND shouldn't be considered a fun activity. Honestly though, have you actually tried it out? We went snowshoeing for the first time this winter, and it was surprisingly fun! The fun lies in falling down, going hiking, and spending time with friends! 

5. Hammocking

Just because warm weather is out, doesn't mean you need to stuff your hammock away for the winter! It is still so beautiful out in the snow, so why not enjoy it? Take your hammock and some blankets up into the mountains, and build a bonfire! It can be a time to relax, or you can get a hammock party going with some friends. Everyone needs to get away, and taking your hammock is a great way to bug out! 

Whatever you choose to do this winter, try something new! In our experience, hating on the weather does nothing else than make it last longer than it should! So, get out, explore, and enjoy the winter weather while it lasts! 

Hurricanes, Earth Quakes & Other Disasters. How Can We Be Better Prepared?

I have had a lot on my mind lately with the Hurricanes & Earth Quakes that have caused devastation to the entire world over the last few months. The thought that I am sure is on most of our minds is "what if?". I want to address that, and give a couple pieces of advice that I have learned over the years.

1. Food Storage. Many of us already know that food storage is something that we need to have, and might have a cold storage in our basement full of random boxes taking up space. Food Storage is great to have in economically hard times, and even immediate emergencies. One thing that is often overlooked though, is having something to grab and go. We should all have a 72 hour kit for every person in our family in case the Emergency we find ourselves in doesn't allow us the luxury of staying in our homes with food storage.

2. Loosing Luxuries. Think of all the things it takes to get a meal cooked at home. You have a stove the requires gas & electricity. How about water? You have pipes & pumps throughout your whole house, so when you go to turn on the faucet, water just falls into your cup. Having a rotational food storage that you can use with your everyday items is great, but we need to have sources of water & food that don't require using all these luxuries. Do some research, and look for which foods have the longest shelf life. Also look into emergency foods that won't require you using any of those things.                                                                               

3. Nutrition. Go into your kitchen right now, and find the foods with the longest shelf life. Look at the labels on the back and compare them to anything that is fresh. The reality is, the longer something is being preserved, the more preservatives it has. There are so many options out in the emergency preparedness industry now that have helped fix this problem. Freeze drying is one of the best examples. Find items that have a good nutritional return after spending quite some time on the shelf. 

The worst feeling that we all have is "what if?". I hope this gave some readers guidance on how they can be better prepared IF that day ever does happen to them and their family.

I am interested in feedback as you have read the article. Anything else you can think of, put in the comments below for fellow readers. I have created sections on my website bugoutsupplyco.com to give you easy options to put into your homes. Feel free to do your own research, but know that we do have options available for you. Our goal is to try and make it easy on you!