At a meeting last week someone said "I had a great summer, I hope you enjoyed yours as well". Honestly, you could hear the room buzz ... and "It's not over yet!" was the general response. Here in the Pacific Northwest, we are fortunate and usually enjoy beautiful weather during the month of September, so there is still plenty of time to plan a trip to the beach, a picnic in the park, or any other kind of fun outdoor activity.

When it comes to playing outdoors, there are always things to think about:  

1.  You are comfortably settled in your spot, ready to relax for the day, and along comes another group of people who plop themselves down right next to you, despite having a huge area to choose from. Instead of seething silently, speak up before they settle down. "We are going to be expanding our group later today and don't want to intrude on your space; perhaps you could move over a bit?"

2.  When it comes to loud music, it may be a case of pick your battles. If it is a small group, then make a friendly request to turn the volume down a bit. However, if it's a large group - or if they have obviously been drinking - you may want to just let it go. When people are having fun outdoors, typically music is included - and headphones are always a plus!

3.  Whether it's a Frisbee, a football, a kite or a beach ball, toys can be fun or a hazard. Pay attention to who and what's around you to avoid accidents; is there a better area in which to play? Just because you brought something with you doesn't mean it has to be used.

4.  Have you ever been reading a book, taking a nap, or just enjoying the view and had a small child trudge right though your space? Unfortunately, it's not only children - people of all ages are looking to go from point A to point B in the most direct manner. It tends to kick dirt, dust and sand all over, and it's just plain rude, so pay attention to where you are going and walk around people and their belongings, not through.

5.  Take out what you bring in, and any extras you find - "extras" being trash. There are no magic fairies to keep everything clean, polished and pristine - it's up to us. If you see people leaving garbage behind or find it blowing your direction, a friendly offer of an "extra trash bag" and an "Oops, this seems to be getting away from you!" will hopefully get the point across.

While the outdoors is more than big enough for everyone, it's still important to be aware of the people around us and how our actions might intrude upon their enjoyment. It comes down to courtesy and showing respect to those around you so everyone can have a great time.