kids and nature; a requirement

After reading THIS article I realized my own needs must be met. I don't think it ends in childhood. On many occasions I need that road trip up north to Flagstaff where the air is clean the sky is bright and the trees are green and full. There is a stress release and even, still, a sense of exploration. My partner and I take road trips down backroads and check out lakes and potential camping sites for some time in the future. We go for hikes in town, not as often as either of us would like, just to get a bit of exercise and maybe discover something new? Just a beautiful scenery or a cool spot for a picnic.

Saturday afternoon we spent the afternoon at Papago Park and took the kids rock climbing/hiking. They had a blast and you literally saw their faces light up when 1) they realized where we were going and 2) actually began to experience it. Many times mid week the little ones will ask if we can go to the park (like we used to) and play ball, catch, ride bikes...just get out of the house. Unfortunately, that hasn't been very convenient to pull off. Hence, why I stayed up yesterday and we went for a stroll in the park just to do something different, "away from the things of man" (Joe v. Volcano reference).

In a nutshell, it was a blast for everyone and it just felt good afterward to know we got out for a little while. We've all been busting at the seams to go camping. Weather has been iffy so it's put off for at least another couple of weeks, but I can't wait.

We'll see what comes up and I'll give you guys some pics to marvel at. Hopefully you won't get the chance to because you will be too busy finding some nature of your own to enjoy.