Be a Wildlifer!!!

The potential for unexpected and wonderful surprises is limitless in the great outdoors, such as Whee's close encounter of the baby armadillo kind. A litter of five of the little armored rooters surrounded her, and a couple got up close and personal. All prejudice against armadillos and the damage they do aside, how cool is this?  And dang it, they're cute!!! 

She still talks about this, so I would say it made it to the Great Memories box.  Being outdoors gives my offspring such a fantastic memory bank to call on; I wish every child could have this experience.

Here's one way to encourage your rugrats to get outside and make some memories. The Kansas Wildscapes Foundation sponsors a program called Wildlifer Challenge for kids. Members participate in a variety of outdoor activities at their own pace, and at their own comfort level. To participate, the kids take digital pictures of themselves (well, probably mom or dad takes the picture) completing tasks like pitching a tent (even a clothesline/blanket one counts!), planting a tree, bird-watching, etc. and submit the photos.  Your progeny can win some great prizes and it's all free! Have your kids check out the program at Wild Life.

One of the things I really really like about this program is the 'nature light' aspect. This blog runs exactly in that same vein- there are occasionally items for the hard-core hunter or the fishing fanatic, but the mission statement I hold to as the goal of nature blogging is "everyone can find an outdoor activity they enjoy."  Biking, hiking, canoeing, you name it, even walking and hanging out in your hammock count as long as it's outside!

  Happy Trails and may your adventures be legendary!