{"id":7655,"date":"2013-06-27T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2013-06-27T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/celebrate-summer-outdoors\/"},"modified":"2013-06-27T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2013-06-27T00:00:00","slug":"celebrate-summer-outdoors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/togethercounts.com\/es\/celebrate-summer-outdoors\/","title":{"rendered":"Celebrate Summer Outdoors"},"content":{"rendered":"

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My kids have recently discovered the fun world of camping \u2013 even better, you don\u2019t have to go far, to sleep under the stars. Backyard camping is a fun way to take a stay-cation this summer,and is also a perfect introduction to camping for young families that might not be ready to venture out into the full wilderness. Logan and Madeline have already camped out in the backyard this summer and had a great time.<\/p>\n

It is easy to make a backyard campout a special family activity without spending a lot of money. Sometimes reconnecting with nature, is what we need.<\/p>\n

We are so busy in our lives. Running from one activity or appointment to the next. Trying to squeeze errands, chores, and family time into all of that. As a Together CountsTM<\/sup> Program ambassador, taking a break from the daily grind and camping out in the backyard allows families to reconnect not only with nature, but each other.<\/p>\n

Kids are so plugged in these days compared to when I was a child. A breath of fresh air is what kids need more than anything. Take a moment to unplug this summer. Forget about cellphones, iPads, computers and the Wii. While you\u2019re at it, plan a simple family hike to add to your \u201ccamping trip\u201d to spend some time being active with your family. Being active in nature is my favorite way to exercise.<\/p>\n

Memories like this are what children will remember from their childhood. As parents, we just have to create the opportunity to build these memories for our children.<\/p>\n

Of course, don\u2019t forget the s\u2019mores!<\/p>\n

Katie\u2019s lifelong interest in food has shown her that part of the goodness in life is enjoying delicious food with friends and family. Katie Goodman is the cook, recipe developer, and photographer behind\u00a0<\/em>GoodLifeEats<\/em><\/a>\u00a0where she dishes on food, books, travel and style. You can also find Katie on\u00a0<\/em>Twitter<\/em><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<\/em>Facebook<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

For more backyard ideas, check out these Together Counts resources!<\/p>\n