Something that I really love is trying new things and being able to document those experiences as I do them. I have learned to overcome being embarrassed of taking pictures in public and having people stare at me as I do them. Maybe that's because I know how to Photoshop them out of my background, but I love finding new places to take pictures at, new restaurants to eat at, and new places to just explore. That's why I have no shame when it comes to being a tourist in my own town. Who cares what people think of you? As long as you're having fun, that's honestly all that matters.
The first thing to do is to research. It's not that hard, all you have to do is Google "events in (insert your city)" and a ton of links will pop up! You can even grab the local newspaper or magazine and you'll see a ton of events, festivals, concerts, and so much more. That's it. That's all you have to do. Then grab a friend or two, your camera, and head out. My mom and I really like attending events that are dog friendly. It's not only great exercise for the pups, but it's fun for us too. The Fairfax (festival) was a fun and random event my mom and I did this past summer and it was honestly one of my favorite days. I love spending quality time with my mama and doing so while eating some really good truck food and getting free things from vendors is just a bonus. When Omar and I lived in Jacksonville, NC our plans for the 4th of July got ruined by the rain. However, there was a free concert called Base Fest on base. Plus, we actually knew who was performing so we knew it was music we were going to like. Even though our plans were ruined we didn't let that stop us from having a great time.
If you're just trying to think of things to do a slow weekend then think about things you enjoy doing, but haven't done in a while. Horseback riding, pick up soccer, shooting? Whenever my brother comes home I can always count on making a trip to the shooting range. It's one of my favorite activities and before you know it you've killed a whole day and worked on your aim. Needing a more fun date idea for that night? You can never go wrong with Dave and Buster's. It's the adult Chuck-E-Cheese, what's not to love?
Needing to get outside for the day? If you live close to water then that's the best activity to do when the weather is nice. Omar and I lived forty minutes from the beaches and whenever the sun was out and we were both off of work we would always go for a Jeep ride on the beach with Oliver. If you live close to a lake or river, that's also a really fun adventure to take with a group of friends. Cliff diving is also so much fun if you live in the right area. Just be safe folks! Since I live in Virginia we have a lot of great hiking places. Again, all you have to do is search "the best places to hike in my area" and you'll get a ton of results.
What about food? Sick of eating Chipotle every other day? My favorite thing to do is to go on Instagram and look up different restaurants in the area. I swear I have a ton of book marked places I want to eat for when I travel. Why not book mark ones in your area too!? Find some unique places to eat. Those hole in the wall restaurants that don't get enough attention. Those are always the best finds.
After you have what you want to do, may it be an event or just a new restaurant for lunch, it's time to enjoy it. Dress up in a super cute outfit, take some nice photos and invite some really good company. Let all of the other stresses go and just enjoy it. Be in the moment and stay off your phone (unless you're taking a picture of course). It's important to just enjoy it. When you go on vacation you're not constantly on your phone are you? You're taking in the beautiful scenery, enjoying what's around you. Do the same here. Who cares if you're only twenty minutes from your home? It's still a new day and you're trying out a new experience. Take pictures, eat the food, and take it all in. It'll be worth it, I promise.
xoxo, Michele
