Yes, it would have been easier to stay inside this past weekend. But many South Dakota residents and many right here in Sioux Falls did just the opposite. They headed outside for a little wintertime 'outdoor time.'

I was one of the people who took part in the Polar Plunge in Parkston, SD this past weekend. I have to admit it was pretty refreshing!  For the most part, I dread winter. Jumping in cold water in January has a way of making you think you could survive anything. It did make me appreciate 'warm.' Something I hadn't thought about.

Today, I read on siouxfalls.org, the City of Sioux Falls website that over 350 people took part in Frosty Frolics this past weekend:

The 2014 Frosty Frolics events had record turnouts, despite somewhat unfavorable weather conditions.

The kickoff event was held on Friday, January 3, 2014, in Falls Park with nearly 350 people in attendance for the fireworks show. More than 190 people listened to tunes from the Goodroad Band in the Overlook Café and more than 775 tubing passes were sold at Great Bear Recreation Park.

 

On Saturday, January 4, 2014, the day started with more than 90 participants in the Frosty Frolics Fun Run at Spencer Park. Then, more than 50 people hit the ice at Family Park for the Fishing Derby, along with 137 snowshoers making tracks at the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum. Memorial Park ice rink entertained 66 people who tried their hand at curling.

 

“Unfortunately on Sunday, our fun was cut short and we had to cancel all events due to frigid windchill temperatures. Otherwise, we were on pace to set additional records for the remaining events,” stated Alicia Luther, Recreation Manager.

There's something about 'getting outside,' that just makes you tougher. There's something about being cold that makes you feel alive. Maybe that comes from a runny nose when you come inside, or cold hands and feet finally warming up after spending some time outside.

This weekend, you'll get a chance to go ice fishing if you like. Right here in town at Catfish Bay. Every weekend, there's a way to get out and 'feel South Dakota!'

Heck this weekend, epic outdoor fun is waiting for you with FunSki! It's a great fundraiser we've been a part of for over a decade!

When I got home from work today, I was talking with my wife and she mentioned that many of her co-workers had been talking about a 4 mile run or a 2 mile fun walk that Beresford is having February 1st. She said, they have several routes already planned. That way participants can run or walk, with the wind.

On a Saturday in February, that might not be a bad idea.

Spring is coming!  Keep warm!

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