Hiking

We were struck by something recently. Both our girls are old enough to go on a substantial hike (one of several miles) without one of them needing to be carried.

This insight was revolutionary because it has freed us to take advantage of all the nearby hiking trails without needing to bring along a structured child carrier.

So we celebrated by spending several weekends in a row hiking.

The girls love getting on the trail. They imagine they are explorers and try to be the first to spot flowers or wildlife. Addie found this little guy sunning on a rock.

Hiking is a chance to get some fresh air and exercise. It is also a wonderful opportunity to teach the girls to stop and marvel at the world God has made.

Clara loved looking at all the plants and wanted to learn their names, so I ordered a field guide for the southwest. I also bought her a notebook so she can start drawing her finds.

We count ourselves very fortunate to have all this beauty to explore. We can literally walk out our front door and be surrounded by nature. It is one of the best things about living out of town (along with the quiet and the amazing view of the stars).

We are looking forward to a summer filled with hiking new and uncharted territory (for us at least)!