77377 Technology Free Zone

          We live in a world full of technology. Instead of using snail mail to contact distant relatives and friends, we can communicate with them in just seconds! We can watch the president speak on TV, stay connected with lots of people at once through social media, and do online networking to increase our chances of employment. These, along with many more, are the amazing benefits that come with technology. However, when technology isn't properly balanced in life, it can get in the way of our relationships. It's possible to stay connected with thousands of friends online but neglect the people that are right next to us- even our spouse.

Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at freedigitalphotos.net

According to the Pew Research Center,

• 42% of 18-29 year olds felt that their partner was distracted by their cell phone when they were together
• 29% of those ages 30-49 said the same
• 25% of married or partnered adults who text have texted their partner when they were both home together.
• 18% of online 18-29 year olds have argued with a partner about the amount of time one of them spent online (compared with 8% of all online couples).

 source: http://www.pewinternet.org/2014/02/11/couples-the-internet-and-social-media/

Image courtesy of marcolm at freedigitalphotos.net

          Do you have your cell phone handy 24/7? Are you constantly checking Facebook, text messages, a digital calendar and emails?

          Plan a  "Technology Timeout" date! For an evening, put away all electronic devices including cell phones, computers, tablets, TV's, and anything else that keeps your attention.

          One way to experience a technology free zone is to go camping!! Dust off the tent and sleeping bags that have been sitting in your garage and head out to Spring Creek Park for a night. If you are in a situation with family or close friends near by, ask someone to babysit for the night while you experience a night under the stars as a couple. If you don't have that option, consider taking the kids with you and making it a technology free family camping trip!

      
          Call Spring Creek park to make your reservation by phone: 281-353-4196, or make your reservation online here. Not sure what to pack? Check out this camping check list to get an idea of what you will need:Camping Check List.

          You have a reservation, a babysitter (if needed), and have packed up the car. Are you at a loss for what to do once you get there?

Read a book together at fireside
Roast smores, hotdogs, starburst and other food over the fire. Experiment to see what tastes good and what doesn't.
Do something romantic- bring a bottle of your favorite drink and nice glassware
Make finger puppets with a flashlight on the side of the tent
Tell some spooky campfire stories . You can find some here:Spooky Campfire Legends
Play card games, Yahtzee, or another classic favorite
Star gaze- talk about what's out there- look for constellations 15 Constellation and How to Find them
Initiate a good conversation around the campfire. To encourage conversation, print out this list of 50 conversation starters for couples to take with you: 50 Conversation Starters

Image Courtesy of Photokanok at freedigitalphotos.net

Spring Creek Website: http://www.hcp4.net/Community/Parks/springcreek