The month of May and the 30 x 30 Nature Challenge wasn’t just a time of discovery for Sam. I got to experience a lot too and most of it acted as a good reminder to enjoy the small things. Sitting down at Sam’s level to play outside made me see all the small things that, as adults, we often go right past: rotting bits of pine cone, the smell of bark that has fallen from a log, moss growing in between boards on a patio, just how pretty some pebbles are. I was also reminded that it’s okay to get wet & dirty sometimes. It’s definitely not the end of the world.
One lesson learned, that tasks in the yard CAN get done eventually with Sam’s “help”, you just need to be patient & remember how completely NEW everything is to him. He needs the chance to really explore each thing you do (like sanding an old bench or planting flowers).
One thing I really want to keep in mind over the coming summer months, is just how enjoyable it is to go outside in the evening after Sam has gone to bed. It’s a great way to wind down and take a deep breath, especially after long days.
Here are some of the things that I took notice of while we spent our time outside:
Lots of tiny details…
New flower and veggie beds planted…
Thanks for the reminder of the VALUE of getting outside regularly. I’ve become slack in that area as it sometimes (often!) feels like too much effort and much to much MESS. But I know it’s good for us. I know it’s worth it. It’s just a matter of doing. Might need to create some sort of challenge for myself…