Chuck's Great Outdoors

The Golden Race

2011-03-28T22:38:00.002-04:00

Running was originally designed for two purposes, to eat and to not be eaten. It later evolved into a more business oriented purpose of sending messages and scouting other tribes. Soon, sports came into the picture, and runners met for good old fashioned competition. In addition to competition, fitness programs have adopted running to control body weight and improve conditioning. The latest use for this ancient movement has become fund raising. People actually pay to partake in an action that was originally used to escape razor sharp teeth.
There is such an abundance of races held for the sole purpose of raising money for the benefit of countless charities. It's interesting to note that everyone wins these races. Runners improve time and build confidence. Neighborhoods form camaraderie and purpose. The charities provide resources to their most prized cause. The racers, the communities and the beneficiaries all become healthier when these events are successful. So, get off the couch and "run for others as you would have them run for you."

Paper or Plastic?

2011-03-24T23:33:00.001-04:00

   I recently learned roughly 4.6 billion people have mobile phones, but only 4.3 billion have access to a toilet. This news can inspire one to consider the options when hanging out with some of the more "outdoorsy" types. First, it is important to note that there is no "Wipe App" for the iPhone, so we still need a hard-copy of the coveted cotton square in lieu of the forthcoming e-wipe. There are many substitutions for having a fresh roll on your person. Here is one thing everyone should be aware of: Poison Ivy.


   On a lighter note, check out this funny book of short stories. Also, I keep the Charmin To Go in my pack, and on my trip to China a few years ago, it SAVED MY A**! Happy Trails!

"D" is for Daylight!

2011-03-20T17:21:00.000-04:00

   We are not hooked into the matrix. We are living breathing individuals with very simple yet complex needs. Food, shelter, water and air are the simple needs, but are comprised of very complex ingredients. Food provides fuel, but also provides vitamins.

   Vitamin D makes your bones strong and gives you a resilience that helps you persevere through physically demanding situations. Calcium is best absorbed into the body when Vitamin D is abundant in the system. Your muscles can grow stronger when your bones are solid. You will be sturdy and tough because your insulin will be modulated better when you have Vitamin D working for you. Arthritis and Osteoperosis will be less likely to get the best of you. Your smile will be richer and more genuine.

   Foods like Milk, Eggs and Fish can provide you with Vitamin D, but the best way to obtain it is to get a good healthy dose of Daylight! So, get off the couch, and go get some Vitamin D. It's free!

   Also, check out these books for your Kindle. The Vitamin D Solution tells you in detail the benefits. Chasing Daylight may inspire you to live your life more adventureously.

FIG-ured you wanted something besides the same old Banana

2011-03-18T21:52:00.000-04:00

FIGS!

Figs have super-human amounts of potassium and anti-oxidants. They also are refreshing and nourishing.

Figs are the best fresh from the tree. If you must buy them, look for clean unblemished fruit that has ripened to a nice deep purple. These are the sweetest. Make sure the gooey mess has not started to collect in the carton. They are located near the fresh berries in the produce section. Keep them in the fridge if you must, but plan to eat them in less than three days. If you plan to eat them sooner, then do not chill. They are much sweeter and flavorful at room temp. Their sweetness cannot be described any less than cherubic. Your palate will sing to the angels!
So go outside, get a good workout in the hot sun, and rehydrate with some fresh figs.

You can start your own orchard in your backyard or on your porch. They will fruit June through August if they have not been frozen too deeply in the winter and have full summer sun. The Celeste Fig Trees are a great breed as cold as Zone 7 in the Southeast USA.