Recently, my family and I decided to escape our suburban routine and embrace nature for a few days at Yosemite National Park. Admittedly, I’m not the most outdoorsy person (I’m more of a cozy couch potato), but the experience was simply blissful. We dug our feet into dusty trails, savored the fresh mountain air, and admired stunning sunsets. We even dipped our toes in the cool mountain streams. The whole experience left us feeling rejuvenated and at peace, much like a refreshing shower after a hot day.
Now that we’re back to our daily lives, I find myself reminiscing about that serene mountain vibe. When I’m swamped with work or the kids are squabbling over what to watch on Netflix, I imagine us escaping to the hills, biking down countryside trails, or splashing in ocean waves. In my daydreams, a little time away is just what we need to break free from our mundane routine.
However, making that dream a reality can be a challenge. Those picturesque scenes of family bliss often clash with our actual experiences. My kids protest, eager to play video games, while my husband and I spend ages loading up the car for what should be a relaxing outing. By the time we’re ready to go, we’re all tired before even stepping outside. And once we do, someone is usually too hot, too cold, or in desperate need of a bathroom.
Let’s face it: unplugging and immersing ourselves in nature is easier said than done. Especially for those of us who aren’t fans of bugs, dirt, or outdoor restrooms. But despite the hurdles, we all know that spending time outdoors is beneficial. At least, that’s what I’ve heard.
So, for my fellow laid-back parents, here’s a relaxed guide to getting your family outdoors:
- Start Small.
I often dream big when it comes to outdoor adventures. I envision us frolicking in fields like the Von Trapp family, but the reality is more stumbling through weeds while someone whines about being cold (usually me). So, I’m learning to dial back my expectations. Sometimes just sitting in the backyard and watching fireflies (with a glass of wine, of course) is enough. There’s no long trek involved, and if chaos ensues, we’re already home. - Be Curious.
Kids are like sponges, soaking up our enthusiasm and attitudes. Instead of just teaching them about nature, let’s show them our wonder and curiosity. Don’t hesitate to exclaim, “Wow! This is amazing!” every once in a while. - Plant Something. Or Delegate.
I have a notorious black thumb and despise gardening. So, I leave that to my partner, who plants a small garden every spring. Each family member picks a veggie to grow, and the kids are responsible for harvesting them. It’s a win-win—especially for me, since I just get to enjoy the fruits of their labor. - Stop Complaining.
We’re all great at pointing out what’s wrong with the world. But if we only focus on the negatives, we won’t make any progress. Instead, let’s take action—like cleaning up our parks or biking instead of driving. Small efforts can lead to meaningful change. - Just Do It!
As much as I dislike planning, I often overthink our outdoor escapades. I make lists and dream about our adventures, only to have life get in the way. Sometimes, we just need to stop planning and get outside. So, I’m about to turn off my computer and take the dogs for a walk around the block.
In the end, I’m just an everyday parent juggling the chaos of family life. We’re all busy, but it’s important to unplug and embrace the outdoors.
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Summary:
This relaxed guide emphasizes the importance of spending time outdoors with family, even for parents who may not be particularly outdoorsy. It encourages starting small, fostering curiosity in children, and taking action rather than complaining. Ultimately, it highlights the necessity of unplugging from daily routines to enjoy nature.