Spending Time in Nature

I married a man who is fueled by adventure - refreshed by spending time outdoors. It really doesn't matter what the activity is as long as he is out in God's wilderness. In our 16 years of marriage we've spent many days kayaking, sailing, hiking, camping, rock climbing, skiing and more. And we didn't slow down when the girls came along. If anything, our adventures were just beginning. Now we do our best to spend one day a week like this, regardless of the weather. Rain, snow or sun...our week just doesn't seem complete without significant time outdoors.

When I was a new parent, I read Richard Louv's book Last Child in the Woods. I'm so thankful for the encouragement I found in this book. I found myself reminiscing to my own childhood and could easily peg my experiences in nature as good memories. Because of this book and because of our own natural inclinations towards being outside, our children have spent hours and hours and hours in the woods (and other places) during their short lives.

Hiking a trail, peeking into a tide pool or working on their backyard garden....this is when I see my children come alive in a whole new way. When they are up close and personal with creation, something happens inside them.

yes...they are in the middle of a pond on floating ice. It ended well for most of the people involved.

I feel it too, when I am outside. When I come around a bed on a trail and see a field of wildflowers, my soul begins to sing. All the worries of life seem to fade and I'm open to gratitude, worship and reflection in a whole new way...not worship of creation, but worship of the Creator. I feel closest to God when I'm enjoying his creation.

As a parent there are many gifts I want to give my children....spending time in nature is one of those gifts. It's such a simple thing to do - especially where we live. The beauty of creation surrounds us - literally. And it's there, waiting for us. All it takes is a little time and determination.

I'm linking up with Home Educator Mom....