Ten Ways to Spend a Summer Afternoon in Prison

It's true that there are no block parties, campouts, picnics, afternoons at the beach, or lazy evenings in the hammock sipping a cold beverage in prison. But beautiful weather and a relaxed attitude are two things prison can't keep out.

If you're not a prisoner in higher security levels, who are often restricted to a single hour of rec time per day, you can enjoy the beautiful weather outside. Some possibilities include:

1. Walk (or run) the track with a friend. The fresh air, exercise, and friendly conversation can add a little light to one's day.

2. Play a game of basketball, softball, cornhole, or horseshoes. This is an opportunity to build relationships, as well as have a little fun.

3. Hit the weight pit. Sure, it's warm, and you'll probably sweat a lot, but what else is a workout for?

4. Bring a book outside to read. You might need some music to tune out the noise around you, and you'll probably need a hat to shield the sun and a tea or (Countrytime) lemonade to refresh you. 

5. Cook up with some friends. Yes, it's microwaved food, not BBQ, but prison recipes can get creative, and what's summer without a "cookout?"

6. Write some letters. Your bunkie is probably outside enjoying the sun, so the room is quiet, and you can write for a while uninterrupted. 

7. Watch a game on TV. If it's summer, it's probably baseball, but it could be golf, tennis, or racing too. 

8. Take a nap. Most people are outside, so it'll be quiet. If you really want to go to sleep fast, watch a NASCAR race. 

9. Play a game of Scrabble. Okay, this is definitely a great activity year round, but it's a summer possibility, too. So are chess, dominoes, and card games. 

10. Write a blog post about ways to spend an afternoon in prison. Or, if you're not into writing blogs, use a summer afternoon for creative writing.

Sure, these activities are missing family and physical freedom, but prison doesn't have to steal all of your joy. While prison is not "normal" for anyone, it can have it's bright moments--but you have to make them happen.