The Choose Your Own Adventure Kit

One of my goals lately has been to embrace adventure. When I was younger, I never wanted to be any one profession. Instead, when asked what I wanted to be "when I grow up," I answered FULL-TIME ADVENTURER. I have since come to realize that this has less to do with just taking trips (although those are pretty great too) and was really about embracing adventure as a lifestyle.

It's too easy to forget adventure. To be too busy. To become overwhelmed with responsibilities. But while we may not be able to jump on a plane on any given day...or leave work early to skinny dip, there are places to fit in a little spontaneity if you look for them and are prepared. So, without further adieu, I present the newest addition to the trunk of my car:

The Choose Your Own Adventure Kit

(I now have 2 small rubbermaid containers in my trunk. 1 for car emergencies and 1 for adventure emergencies)

* State map or atlas - good for finding new, unexplored places

* A headlamp or flashlight

* An extra pair of socks and underwear - you often won't mind wearing the same clothes again but may balk at the idea of doubling up on undie usage.

* Socks and an old pair of tennis shoes - socks for warmth, tennis shoes will allow you to go on a last minute run, hike or just be more comfortable cruising a last minute museum trip

* A jacket - mine is an old rain jacket to serve as double duty

* Snacks - non-perishable food items. I keep one or two dehydrated meals and a few fruit leathers. Also great to have in the event of a road emergency.

* A water bottle - we ALL have a million of these lying around. This time of year, I also keep a gallon of water in the car (obviously not a great idea for winter) which I've pulled out on more than one occasion.

* My yoga mat - think about it, unless you do a LOT of yoga at home, you probably shlep it to a gym or studio anyway so why not just keep it there? A yoga mat can be used for an after work session in the park but also as something to sit on or as a sleeping pad even.

* A fleece blanket - again, good for emergencies but can double as a summer sleeping bag

* The 10 Essentials Kit (as discussed in a previous post) - mine has been pared down to fit into one small travel bag that I can transfer from pack to car etc.

So, with these items you can create adventure where you might otherwise find an excuse.

"I can't go for a run, because I don't have my shoes"

"I can't stay at the campfire because I'll get cold"

"I could never go camping after work on a Friday"

So, what else would you add? I added some extra dog food and a water bowl for the mutt. After all, he LOVES camping!

Perhaps a tarp? An extra set of clothing for the kiddos?