Tie some flies and traipse across the snow with Camp 307

“Miss Josie, do we really have to go outside? It’s so cold out! My hands are going to freeze like popsicles.”

Winter is here and maybe you’ve heard this similar expression from your own kids or perhaps you felt this way before heading out the door. Let’s face it, winter is cold, dark and seems to last forever. So why care? Let’s just curl up with some hot chocolate and call it a day. Now, I love a delicious cup of homemade hot chocolate, but drinking hot chocolate and sitting on the couch for five-months probably isn’t the healthiest option.

Going to the Y to work out in a warm building is ok, but it may not be fulfilling all that your bodily needs. You see, our bodies need fresh air and although the gym may work the physical aspect of the body, it doesn’t always work the mind or connect to the spirit the same way that being outside does.

During the winter our bodies crave sunlight, movement, and mental stimulation more than any other time of the year. This is especially important for kids as they are learning about resilience and how to stay active during the winter. By learning to build an appreciation for winter we can allow ourselves to enjoy this wonderful season and all it has to offer.

Winter might be cold and dark but it doesn’t have to be, there are many ways to stay warm and active. Most find that once they are outside and moving, they actually become too hot, often leading to a teachable moment about thermoregulation.

During the dark winter hours, snowshoe and ski trails are often illuminated with ice lanterns or by the light of a full moon. Cold hands and feet can be remedied with food, physical activity, and warm clothing. Community is found around a campfire, and plans for the seasons ahead are being brewed.

When it’s time to take a break from the cold, fishing stories can be found around the fly tying table as campers prepare for future fishing adventures. Winter may take a bit more preparation, but the reward of spending time outdoors during wintertime is unlike anything you will experience. I could tell you stories about my experiences, but I really think you should get out there to try it for yourself.

Whether you, your kids or someone you know is looking for a full-body workout of the mind, body, and spirit this winter, I encourage you to come to the Y to check out Camp 307, as we will be offering a variety of winter activities to get you or your child outdoors.

Winter is my favorite of the four seasons, so if you have questions about staying warm, how to get your kiddos outside, or perhaps would like to drag me out of the office for a winter adventure, please stop in and say hello. I hope to be a resource that connects people to the Bighorns and you to your next winter adventure.

Josie Schmitt
Camp 307 Coordinator for the Johnson County Family YMCA

January 2020 No School Day Camps

Art of the Fly – Fly Tying & DIY Fly Box
Winter is a great time to tie flies in anticipation of warmer days to come. Join us at Camp 307 where you will learn to tie a variety of flies that represent species found in the aquatic environment, such as the elk hair caddis, woolly bugger, and more. At the end of the session, Campers will walk away with their own custom made fly box and the flies they have created.

COST
$20

DATE/TIME
Friday, January 10th
8:30 am – 12:00 pm

EQUIPMENT
Fly tying and fly box materials provided by the Y

LOCATION
Y IN THE PARK
419 W Angus St
Buffalo, WY 82834

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Winter Pursuits – Snowshoe Adventure
Snowshoes have been around for over 4,000 years and were designed to mimic a snowshoe hares’ ability to stay above deep snow. On this adventure, Campers will learn how snowshoes have become a staple for winter travel and survival. We will then educate and practice basic techniques as they spend time hiking and playing games. This is just one of many winter pursuits that offer a lifetime of health benefits that can be enjoyed by anyone.

COST
$20

DATE/TIME
Monday, January 20th
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

EQUIPMENT
Snowshoes provided by the Y
Please send children with a lunch and appropriate winter clothing.
Contact Josie for more information on what is appropriate.

ADVENTURE LOCATION
Middle Fork
A SPOT Device is used to periodically provide GPS location to YMCA

MEETUP LOCATION
Y IN THE PARK
419 W Angus St
Buffalo, WY 82834

Please visit camp307.org or stop by the Y to register today!