1. You can go whenever you want.
Most ADDers need a few hours to ease into the day, and most sports require an early start. But if you start your hike in the early evening, there are fewer people on the trails, and the sun isn't blazing overhead.
2. You don't need to bring anything.
How many times have you showed up at the swimming pool without your goggles? Or taken your kid to his baseball game without his glove? When you get in the car to go hiking, all you need is a bottle of water. Sure, certain stores sell hiking gear, but for a casual weekend hike, you don't need squat.
3. There are no rules.
The only rule of hiking is Leave No Trace, which basically means don't litter and don't deface anything. Other than that, you're free!
4. No frustrating learning curve.
Have you tried other sports, only to give up after a few lessons because you weren't improving fast enough?
Hiking is just walking. There is nothing to learn, and you don't even need to be coordinated. You're a great hiker already, even if you have no experience.
5. You can turn around and go home.
Bored to tears after 15 minutes? There is no game to play out and no team to disappoint. Turn yourself around and head back to the parking lot.
6. It's good for your brain.
Walking in the woods is like an instant battery recharge. It allows you to relax and connect with yourself and whomever you bring along. Fresh air and sunlight are good for your body and good for your mood. So get out there!
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I just want you to know how helpful these thoughts are. each time they arrive in my in-box I anxiously read them. It is so good to know that my frustrations are not my fault but the simple fact that my spouse can not help what he does. Although I will probably have to divorce in preference to losing my home to pay for his impulsiveness, I understand that he isn't impulsive on purpose. Your postings help me to remember that. Thank you for taking the time to make my life a little easier.
Posted by: Pat G. | June 26, 2007 at 09:13 PM
Pat, thank you so much for your kind words. I am happy that my blog has helped you to better understand your husband. Living with an ADDer is definitely an adventure, especially when you don't understand why they do the things they do. But they keep life interesting and keep you on your toes, which is more than can be said for some relationships. Thanks again.
Posted by: Erin | July 10, 2007 at 03:48 PM