***Thank you for all of your kind emails, comments, phone calls, etc. about Friday’s post. I was so back-and-forth about posting the story, but I’m glad I did. Sure, many people probably judged me, but I think sometimes the most interesting conversations and debates can come from putting your story out there, even when it is not a flattering one. All of your comments made me think, but more than anything, they made me feel supported as a parent. Thank you.***
After the drama of last week, Andrew and I indulged the fleeting feeling of wanting to pack up our kids and head out of town, away from crowds of people and into the peacefulness of the woods. On Saturday morning, we pretty much just picked up and left. We didn’t know exactly where we were going, but drove and drove southwest, knowing there were several state parks in that direction. We ended up about 30 miles away, and though I can’t remember the name of the park, as soon as we stepped outside and took a deep breath, we were better inside.
It has been really cold here. You know, winter-cold. But Saturday turned out to be a pleasant 60 degrees- a welcome respite amidst more seasonal temperatures. One day. One day to get out and soak up sunshine through leafless branches. The ice from the ground had enough time to thaw before we got there to create some slippery, muddy paths, but no one cared. We took our time as the boys threw rocks, touched icicles, peeked down into cracks and under mossy boulders.
Andrew and I noted how all of us were happier, but Milo came alive as soon as he was released into the wild! It was as if he blossomed before our very eyes, and he was joyous and moving and just… on fire. He was in his element. After 5 minutes of being out of the car, Oliver, who had been crying and whining just about the whole trip there, exclaimed, “I LOVE this place! This is just where I wanted to come!”
When we sat down for a picnic lunch, it was so quiet that I almost cried. I had forgotten what it felt like to sit in silence, outside, with the people I love. I realized that I had been buzzing with emotions and anxiety all week, about the incident with CPS, about recovering from surgery and getting back into a normal routine, about weaning Emil and the emotional/hormonal toll that it always takes on me. I guess we have had a lot going on over the past two weeks! I’m ready for normal again.
This day gave me a little peak into spring. It made me think of the sounds and smells of outside that I have been missing. It made me think of our hopes to expand our veggie garden and maybe plant another fruit tree. About long walks to playgrounds we love, keeping our back door open with little boys and a dog free to be in or out as they please, and meeting up with friends to enjoy nice weather. I know it is only January, but this day gave me a boost.
And I can breathe again… until the next warm day.
So glad you all had a physical and spiritual respite. This brought back precious memories of our walks in the woods in Yellow Springs, OH when we were all so young and your father was with us. Being with the ones you love in nature, being quiet in beauty, brings love to the forefront. It makes you feel grateful for the important things in life, and reinforces those feelings. This was just the perfect thing to do – and at the perfect time. Love you all! Mom
Being outside in nature always makes me feel more centered. That was the perfect way to spend the day. I envy your coatless weather, and have also been prematurely planning for spring. Winter is a favorite season for me, but I’m discovering that with a kid it’s just not as fun as those warmer times 🙂
Those yellow chords on Milo are killer too.
And, I don’t think anyone who read your story could possibly have judged you! The opposite. Here’s to a brighter end to January (although I won’t be sad to see this month go).
Looks so beautiful! And you’re right, it looks very similar to the adventure my family had last weekend. It’s funny that you guys venture out from the city to rejuvenate, and we went INTO the city yesterday to rejuvenate. We live in the middle of nowhere.
Well, you guys are just about the cutest family I’ve seen wandering around the woods! I love the pics of Milo and Oliver together – cute! And the pic of you and Emil is so sweet. The natural world (and plenty of sunshine) always gives me hope.
xo
cortnie
This was a wonderful post to read.. So happy you guys were able to find some time to be with yourselves and nature. I am IN LOVE with those two brothers with their arms over each other’s shoulders. Hope you have a great week. xo
This is such a great post! I love your blog! Sounds like the perfect day.
So glad you were able to get out and enjoy the fresh air you all needed. The weather was so perfect for an adventure.
Good job on getting out and about! Nothing like a walk in the woods to restore one’s spirit, engage the senses, delight. It’s so funny to me that I too always forget this, even thought I literally live in the woods. Hopefully you and your family get to have many adventures like this one this coming year. And yes, January, what is up with it?
This really was a wonderful post. I read about what happened last week. Ugh. No words. 🙁
But I’m REALLY glad you guys got out of dodge and into the wilderness. It’s so healing, the silence of it all.
What a lovely little getaway. My thoughts have been with you as I know you have had a rough couple of weeks and these sweet photos warm my heart. Milo and Oliver are ridiculously adorable! Seems like some good time for a peaceful mini vacation.
aww this post makes me teary with relief for you and the whole fam. The woods really do make everything better 🙂 I adore these pics of Milo and Oliver – reminds me of Dylan and his younger bro. Also love Oliver’s “I LOVE this place! This is just where I wanted to come!”