There has always been something in our lives constantly around us, and today, more than ever, it is being ignored. With all of the new exciting feats in technology, gaming, product development and more, our minds are being constantly engaged and stimulated every minute, even right before going to sleep. The one thing that has always been there regardless of the path the world was heading down is nature.

Whether it is a lake, a clear spring, blooming trees, the blue sky or an open hayfield, it has been the constant throughout our earth's history. It feels as if with today's technological developments that we always have our blinders on and ignore the beautiful nature around us.

One doesn't have to go on a hike or a camping trip to enjoy the beauty in nature. How many times while taking a long drive to a vacation or destination, you find yourself wondering about the most random topics in your mind or scrolling mindlessly through myriads of social media? Probably quite often, even if you don't realize it right away. Driving on the highway is a time completely underutilized to look out the window and see nature just passing you by. Birds and hawks flying overhead, the different forms of trees growing in spring or bare-boned over winter.

A simple hike through a park or a trail could make someone fall right back in love or in love with our beautiful planet. Most cities have trails set aside and cared for by the local community. The Department of Recreation and Parks strive to preserve areas where we all can unplug from the world. I understand that woodsy areas might not be everyone's fortes. Trust me, I hate bugs, but it is always good to get out of one's comfort zone and experience new things. Walking through forests and trails seem to be the best place to have deep conversations or even hilarious movie and show references.

Going on a picnic used to be something families, children, and friends all used to plan and look forward to. Homemade dishes lemonade, PB&J, you name it! Planning a picnic could be something new and fun to try out, especially with the late days that summer brings. A picnic will be a nice change of scenery, instead of the usual bar or couches.

Exploring and experiencing nature is all about enjoying the nature on this green earth, and you can interpret it in any way you can. That is the beauty of it. We should enjoy all the nature we can while we can. It is so easy to get bogged down in the daily routines. It wouldn't hurt to mix it up a little bit, and view the beauty that lies within nature.