Last month, our family ventured away from our suburban routine for a few days of fresh air and nature at Yosemite National Park. As someone who tends to favor the comforts of home, I was pleasantly surprised by how rejuvenating the experience was. We spent hours hiking, inhaling the crisp mountain air, watching sunsets, and splashing our feet in cool streams. It felt liberating—like a refreshing shower followed by an ice-cold drink on a scorching day.
Now that I’m back to the daily hustle, I find myself reminiscing about that mountain tranquility. When work projects pile up or the kids bicker over the remote, I often daydream about escaping the chaos. I imagine us hiking through serene hills, cycling on peaceful country paths, or jumping in the ocean waves. In theory, a little family getaway could be just what we need to shake off the mundanity of everyday life.
However, turning those idyllic visions into reality can be a challenge. The romanticized notion of blissful outdoor adventures doesn’t quite match our actual experiences. The kids often resist the idea, opting instead for video games, while my husband and I spend what feels like an eternity packing the car for our supposed escape. By the time we finally get outside, one of us is too hot, too cold, too tired, too hungry, or simply in need of a bathroom break.
Let’s face it: unplugging and enjoying nature is easier said than done, especially for those of us who aren’t fans of bugs, dirt, or outdoor restrooms. Yet, despite these hurdles, spending time in nature is undeniably beneficial for everyone—at least, that’s what I’ve heard.
So for my fellow easygoing parents, here’s a relaxed guide to enjoying the great outdoors:
- Start small.
I have a tendency to overplan. I envision grand escapades, but they often devolve into chaotic outings filled with complaints and discomfort. I’m learning to adjust my expectations—starting with small adventures instead. Sometimes, just sitting in the backyard with a glass of wine, watching fireflies, can be enough. It requires minimal effort and an indoor bathroom is just a few steps away. Plus, when things inevitably go awry, we can retreat to the comforts of home. - Foster curiosity.
Kids are natural learners, soaking up our enthusiasm along with knowledge. While it’s easy to take on the teacher role, it’s also important to express awe and curiosity about nature. Letting my kids see me marvel at our surroundings encourages them to do the same. So don’t hesitate to exclaim, “Wow! This is amazing!” every now and then. - Get your hands dirty—or pass the task.
Gardening isn’t my strong suit; I tend to forget to water plants, and my houseplants have met their demise under my care. So, I leave that to my partner, who plants a small garden each spring. Each family member picks a vegetable to grow, and if we’re lucky enough to harvest anything, the kids handle the picking. It’s a win-win—especially for me, since I mostly just enjoy the fruits of their labor. - Quit the complaints.
Complaining seems to come naturally to us. With so many global issues at hand, it’s easy to focus on the negatives. However, rather than wallowing in frustration, we can take action. Picking up litter in a local park or biking instead of driving can be a great way to make a positive impact, while also enjoying the outdoors. - Just go for it!
I’m all about planning—making lists, scheduling weekends, and dreaming about outdoor activities. But life gets in the way, and those grand ideas often fall by the wayside. Sometimes, you just have to stop planning and get out there. I’m just an ordinary mom navigating the chaos of family life, and sometimes we need to switch off the screens and head outside. So, if you’ll excuse me, I’m about to turn off my computer and take the dogs for a stroll, even if it’s just around the block.
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In summary, embracing the outdoors doesn’t have to be a monumental task. Start small, nurture curiosity, and focus on the positives. With a bit of planning and a willingness to adapt, outdoor adventures can be enjoyable for the entire family.