The last few days of gloriously warm weather have really prepped and pepped me for summer.
Earlier in the month a lovely day fooled me as icy cold, wind, and snow followed, but our current forecast indicates sunny days ahead.
Gardening gloves, seeds, potting soils, and more decorate our deck and front steps as I anticipate a continuation of sunshine.
Not much is better than warm soil, sprouting seeds, and thoughts of flowers and vegetables in the future. Taking part in an AARP presentation on gardens and community gardens, I am revved. While I do not expect that freezes and blizzards are over for the spring, I cross my fingers that they possibly are vanquished.
Along with planting, nice days send my mind whirling toward outdoor fun including yard games.
We have a basketball court out back that kids and grandkids make use of along with swings and a small pool.
Being fond of running through the sprinklers we launch a contest of High/Low Hose.
The runner dashes by hoping to hop the low hose or duck the high one. Of course, with Grandma or Poppy holding the hose, the kids always get soaked. Rule adjustments are cherished!
A couple of years ago a Bed and Breakfast had a giant Scrabble board on the wall, complete with letters and an area for keeping score.
Enthralled I check it out online - $1,200+ - wow! For brain-challenging amusement that price felt ludicrous. I plan to gather my creativity and determine if I can’t gather enough wood, blocks, stencil letters, and magnets to make our own at minimal cost.
A little easier to design is “Lawn Yatzee”. Large di made of wood or sturdy sponge come with the kit along with regular score cards.
My thought is to get a piece of plywood, cut it in half, cover it with chalkboard paint, draw a score card, and initiate some family entertainment.
A stroll through Frugal Flamingo I spied a croquet set. Recalling the good times spent in my neighbor’s backyard swinging mallets at wooden balls and watching them spin toward the wicket, I put it on hold.
I don’t remember ever winning – but certainly I must have at least once – but I do recollect the action, competition, and laughs. Buying a used set saved me money in case it is not the hit I foresee plus frees me to indulge in the acquisition of other pursuits.
Next on the list – Pickleball. This game has become so popular with folks of all ages. I know we have staged some local tournaments and ADF-Winnemucca has applied for an AARP grant to build a double court next to our Fitness Pad.
Although I have never played, I have observed and many friends rave. It’s simple, from what I am told, and can be played for fun or for blood.
Costco Connections has an article on this tennis-like sport complete with key terminology: Dillball, incoming ball that bounces once; Dink, soft, arching shot; Falafel, shot hit without power; Kitchen, the 7-foot no volley zone; Pickled, scoring 0 points in a game.
With titles like this it has to be entertaining. Providing good exercise and motion, it appears that it is easy on the knees and shoulders plus a good way to maintain strength through healthy activity.
Again searching online I discovered a Pickleball set with net, 4 paddles, balls, and instructions. Our basketball court can transition or we have a good driveway out front.
Another all-time favorite that requires little exertion and extensive relaxation is the porch swing. I bought two at different times– the “Company Swing” by the picnic table and the “Everyday Swing” just outside the porch door.
Originally the first was covered with canvas but the Nevada sun ate though that producing hazardous sitting. I hauled that to the corner of the yard for “Scarf Painting”, another fun endeavor, and replaced it with a wooden one that has held up well.
The second is ideal in the morning for coffee and conversation then perfect in the evening for a glass of wine and unwinding – or is that “Unwining” or “Unwhining”?
Both have cushions that I have re-covered several times so the time spent rocking is cozy. The first emits a friendly, repetitive creak, the latter an uplifting metal clunk. Both are wise investments.
As you discover ways to enjoy the coming season, send them my way. I may have to add them to our repertoire.