Christmas and children

Last year at Christmas, my Dad wanted to take a drive up to Calhoun TN and show us the cemetery where his father is buried. This is something we had never seen so it was a unique trip. This year he wanted to take us up to Blythe Ferry crossing because the Sandhill cranes migrate from the Michigan/Wisconsin area and this is a resting spot for them along the way. He told us that at times you can see literally tens of thousands of the birds in the cornfields. So, we loaded up and off we went. This story isn't about the birds though, it is about Christmas day.

On the ride up, I sat in the back and my brother sat up front with Dad. I just looked at the scenery along the way and about half way there something dawned on me. There were no kids outside playing! I did not see a SINGLE child outside on a new bike or playing with a new Tonka truck or motorcycle or anything! I thought it was odd! When we were kids you were ALWAYS outside playing with or showing off your loot to your friends! This was about a 40 minute ride and the only person I saw was a farmer tending his fence!

So, I got wondering, has the culture we have instilled in todays children become an indoor one?? I do not have any children but have watched my friends and relatives children grow up and I see them outside less and less. It is video games or cell phones or some other electronic gadget that has them enthralled!

I guess for us growing up back when we did, it was natural to be outside. So, in turn, I assume it is natural for todays youth to be inside!

As we were nearing the site, I voiced my observation and my Dad said, "I was thinking the same thing about ten miles ago"

So has the outdoor generation raised a generation of indoor children? Or grandchildren?

I don't guess I have a point other than to make my observation and see what others think. I sure do miss making a plywood ramp and jumping my bike over the Hamby's ditch of death though!