Bad Weather Doesn't Stop Us

People moving to the Puget Sound-area should have to pass a quiz before they settle in: a) Have you ever suntanned in 60-degree weather? b) Do you feel relief when rain finally returns in September after a hot August? and, c) Do you eagerly participate in year-round outdoor activities in all weather conditions?

If you answered yes to these questions, congratulations! You'll be a happy resident here.

The truth is that life is indeed sweeter in the Puget Sound region if you can find ways to stay busy despite the weather forecast. And kids usually think it's cool to do their favorite summer activities in the off-season.

Here are a few ideas for fun things to do with kids no matter what the barometer says:

* Go to the beach: Beaches are great in summer, but when the weather cools that doesn't mean you have to pack away the beach bag. Dress the family in warm layers and visit one of our area's great Puget Sound beaches. We took little L for a walk at Dash Point State Park in Federal Way this month. Kids still love to play in the sand in cooler weather, and looking for sea life is a great year-round activity.

* Build a campfire: Campfires aren't just for camping. We recently made one in our backyard in an inexpensive fire pit. It's fun to bundle up and tell stories around a fire. And, of course, kids can't resist a chance to roast marshmallows.

* Take a swim: Okay, not in the lake. But indoor pools are a great cold weather activity. Even little L at eight months had fun splashing around in the warm water. Most local community pools have time set aside for family swims, which is a great rainy afternoon activity.

It's easy to find fun things to do this fall and winter... as long as you think like a local.


Links:
Washington State Parks
City of Seattle Swimming Pools
King County Pool
Build a Campfire