There is a possibility that when you read the first lines, you already have an idea of why she was smiling. Her phone. This is not the case. We are enjoying the outdoors and creating memories that will last a lifetime. That is what I have learned from Trailblazing Hope Outdoors.
Before moving to Ohio, our opportunities to enjoy the outdoors were limited since there were not a lot of places to go. Our time together was mostly going to a friend's house and staying inside. We did some small walks, but not in a regular manner. After the move, we took advantage of the different parks around the area. We started to experience the advantages Nature offered, but never in an organized manner. When I received information that a new organization, Trailblazing Hope Outdoors, was providing students the opportunity to connect in the outdoors, I wasted no time. I was looking for this opportunity. However, this is when I found myself at a crossroads. Should I volunteer to be a hiker or be a parent and send my kids by themselves? Many people say that time is short and that the more time we spend together as a family, the closer the relationship we will have. Trailblazing Hope Outdoors was offering the opportunity to do just that, to connect with my family more. Therefore, it was an easy decision to sign up to be part of the adventure. Little did I know that it was going to be something constructive without having to stare at a screen the whole time. At first, there was hesitation and doubt from my family. However, after the first sessions we started to enjoy the guided activities. At the same time, I confirmed that there was no need to be an experienced or professional hiker. All that the group needed was someone to be there in the moment, experiencing nature, sharing time with the participants, and learning from the experiences. I can see a difference in our family. We enjoy our time together more. I will continue to plan to have more walks in Nature, as we continue to do things as a family. Now, looking back at the question, should I be a parent or a hiker, this is my answer... I am both.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Hope From the TrailHope From the Trail features original content related to the healthy pursuit of self, others, and nature. Be sure to stay connected for all things outdoors.
Archives
December 2020
Categories |