Living in the city, I worry that my kids are missing out on some essential experiences in nature. Sometimes city living is so focused on getting from point A to point B that we don’t have a moment to slow down and enjoy the moment. I’ve been making more of an effort lately to incorporate nature into our daily routine, so with the beautiful fall weather yesterday we decided to take the kids for a walk in the woods at a nearby forest preserve. During our walk we smelled wet leaves and watched bumble bees whir and threw sticks into the North Branch of the Chicago River.
Chris and I talked about where to eventually set down our family’s roots. It seems to be an ongoing conversation between the two of us, and whenever we are immersed in nature we feel the pull to make our home in the country.
Evie and Mack have been bickering a lot lately. Their petty arguments – which aren’t so petty to them, I know – exhaust me. But, while we were hiking yesterday they didn’t get into a single fight. They were genuinely happy. Refreshed, really. And that made me happy.
Sweet little Vivian hitched a ride with me in her baby carrier for nearly the entire walk. Towards the end of the walk she grew hungry and fussy, so I nursed her as we walked and cradled her as she dozed.
Soon enough, Mack decided he wanted me to hold him, so Chris took over with Vivian and I got some special time with my little man. My little man who is growing up too fast. I hope he knows just how much I love him.
For so many reasons, a good long walk in the woods is good for a family.
We broke from the established path and forged our own route. We let the kids take turns leading the way, their nimble feet managing the unfamiliar terrain with such confidence and curiosity.
Every now and then, its important to set aside the distractions of home. Go some where new and take a deep breath. Reset and recharge in a new environment.
At the end, when the kids were dragging and starting to whine, we gently encouraged them, let them know they can do it. And, they did it!
We hiked for more than two hours, and all three of my precious babies made me so proud.
I am the luckiest.
© Copyright 2024 Homemade Mothering | A Back to Basics Approach to Mothering and Homekeeping
Mack did a great job, though his little legs did give out after two hours of hiking. Imagine how big those branches and downed trees must have looked to him!