5 Excuses for Staying Inside When It’s Nice Out
If you’re anything like me, you have a little voice in your head that dishes out guilt trips when you stay indoors despite it being gorgeous out. Grab a baguette and go on a picnic, it says, even though you’re not particularly hungry and don’t feel like tracking down a two-foot-long bread product. You waited all winter for a day like this, the voice insists. Get some fresh air in your lungs, for crying out loud!
But sometimes you just aren’t in the mood to live it up in the sunshine. Here are some “legit” excuses for staying inside — even when there’s not a cloud in the sky.
1. It’s cheaper to stay inside.
Whether you’re grabbing organic steaks to grill at a neighbor’s barbecue or meeting friends for a few watermelon margaritas al fresco, the cost of going out can add up quickly. Even just grabbing a grande caramelized honey Frappuccino while you walk around town soaking up the sun can be money you wouldn’t have spent if you’d only stayed inside. My philosophy? Keep your windows open and your wallet shut.
2. It’s more relaxing (and climate-controlled) indoors.
Being outside isn’t always relaxing. It can be hard to focus on reading your favorite book with your hair whipping around or some dude’s lawnmower buzzing away. Suddenly, you’re as picky as Goldilocks: everything’s too hot, too windy, or too loud. The best way to recharge is to stay home where you have more control over your environment.
3. You can’t get a sunburn inside.
As you’re protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging rays, staying inside is good for your health — especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. In 20 years, when you’re (mostly) wrinkle-free, you’ll be thankful you stayed put.
4. Pests and poisonous things live outside (mostly).
Sure, a pool party sounds fun, but it also exposes you to pests. Staying within four walls reduces the threat of contracting something nasty from poisonous plants, wayward viruses, bee stings, or anything else that has the potential to ruin your day. Sure, you might feel bad for not taking full advantage of the nice weather, but at least you won’t be up all night scratching at mosquito bites.
5. Culinary genius takes time.
Be honest: Instead of running through a sprinkler, flying a kite, or swaying in a hammock, you’d rather be perfecting your already-slammin’ banana bread, canning strawberry rhubarb preserves, or making your own pickles — and these things take time. Plus, there’s so much wonderful produce right now, it’s almost a crime not to cook. By knocking out some terrific seasonal food, you’re celebrating the perks of warm weather — but within the comfort of your kitchen.
What’s your excuse for staying inside when it’s nice out? Tell us in the comments!