Nebraskaland Magazine
Our recent 80 and 90 degree days might lead you to think otherwise but September 22nd was the first official day of the fall season! Summer, you will be missed but I am more than ready for the cooler weather and festivities that accompany this time of year. For me fall is about spending as much time outside before hunkering down for winter. The crisp air and changing foliage make for perfect camping and hiking trips. Saturdays are spent with family and friends cheering on the Huskers. Apple picking at an orchard and venturing to a pumpkin patch are a must. And of course, spending time cleaning up the garden and yard before winter.
Naturally many of my fall traditions involve the great outdoors. This year I am taking it up a notch by joining women from across the state at Nebraska Game and Parks Commissions Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) weekend workshop. The BOW workshop usually takes place in early October over a weekend at one of Nebraska’s state parks or recreational areas. The weekend program consists of four class sessions over three days with other scheduled events, meals and free time in between. The class topics are wide ranging but all focus on developing one’s outdoor skills in a fun and non-intimidating atmosphere.
Running for more than twenty years, the weekend has long been a fall tradition for many Nebraska women. Getting outside is valuable for everyone but developing these skills can bring about an independence and empowerment that is especially important for women. This year I’m signed up for a couple hunting courses. We’ll see, maybe by next fall I’ll be adding hunting trips to my list of fall traditions. With a couple spots still open, registration for this year’s BOW weekend workshop is closing soon. But you can find more focused BOW events and workshops taking place throughout the year, too. Find out more at the BOW website.
Brynn Stewart, Outdoor Education Assistant
