Last weekend a group of friends reminded me why I love the outdoors, and more importantly why it is important to share your outdoor experiences with good friends.

Let me paint the picture - if you don't remember last Friday it was cold as heck, but that wasn't going to deter us. Eight of us loaded up our cars and headed to our secret camping spot. Sorry I can't tell you where (b/c then you'd all take it over), but I will tell you that we have over 1.5 million acres of public land in the Roanoke Region and, for the most part, you can camp anywhere (with a few exceptions).

As the night progressed the temperature began to drop. But that didn't matter as we had a good fire going. The one thing that really stood out to me that night was the stars. It's amazing how much brighter they are if you drive just a few miles away from city centers.

We woke the next morning to rain...which quickly turned to sleet, then hail, and finally snow. But you know what, we loved it.  The dramatic and unexpected change in weather only solidified that fact that as long as you're in good company, you'll have a good time.

So, of course my recommendation for this weekend is to go find your very own secret camping spot...then invite your friends and make some memories.

If you aren't up to it this weekend, then here are a few other ideas:

• Saturday is the 32nd Annual Clean Valley Day.  If you can't participate in the actual event, be sure to take a few minutes and pick up trash around your neighborhood, or favorite outdoor area.
• On Sunday head down to Kirk Avenue Music Hall to listen to Montana Skies - a must see live concert experience. A duo with the full spectrum of an orchestra crossed with the energy of a rock band. Montana Skies creates a "new acoustic" sound with their pairing of cello, six-string electric cello, Spanish/classical guitar, and steel string guitar.
• And while music is still on your mind, go ahead and order your tickets for the May 13-14 Down By The River music festival. With a line up that includes Chris Thile, The Black Lilies, Neko Case, Court Yard Hounds, and Jay Farrar you won't be disappointed.
• On April 16 runners from more than 36 states will decend upon Roanoke for the second running of America's Toughest Road Marathon - the Blue Ridge Marathon. Volunteers are still needed and it's not to late to get involved. Click here to volunteer.

Whatever you end up doing...have fun and be safe!