Explorers

Backpacks, hats, water, flashlights, bug jars, and magnifying glasses: Check-Let's go.

Norah and Justin took turns climbing like Billy Goats.


Dance Break

Sword Fights were frequent and enthusiastic.

Searching for the perfect rocks to skip.


I have been dying to go to a small, local nature preserve since I learned it contained groups of trees and other native plants that do not occur together anywhere else on earth, is a watershed for Spring Creek, and other unique items that only interest me. Today the whole family climbed in the car for an afternoon of exploration. The kids peppered me with questions about our destination, and I casually answered that we were going to "a park", an answer that drew cheers. They scampered back and forth down the trail laughing, giggling, and investigating wildflowers and bugs, but looked eagerly around each bend for something else. Finally Norah said "Daddy, where's the playground?" Both kids were highly displeased with my response, and whined "but I wanted to go to a REAL park."

Many lessons were learned.

1. Correct terminology is very important:

If you say you are going exploring in the woods, everyone will be happy going outside.

If you say you are going to the park, you better not go exploring in the woods.

2. You also might not want to tromp through grass that's considerably taller than your kids.

3. Do not be surprised when your wife looks at you like you're from another planet when you excitedly point out quirks of nature such as "See there, this is the only place on earth that has Burr Oaks, Shumard Oaks, and Chinquapin Oaks growing side by side."

4. Bring more water.