Nature Walk

I loaded all of the children into the van today and drove to a nearby forest. This forest is managed by the state university's forest management program. The weather was comfortable, but most of us wore long sleeves because of the large mosquito and biting fly population. We walked 2 miles. I was especially proud of my 3 and 5 year old daughters because they didn't complain about being tired. My 11 year old son ran races periodically with the youngest girls which helped keep them interested throughout the walk.

There is a creek that runs through the forest. In on place the creek is crossed by a covered bridge.

Everyone played "Pooh Sticks" and posed for a group picture.


This is the view from one side of the bridge.

During our walk we observed a large field that grew grasses and wildflowers. There were so many butterflies and moths. The younger kids had a blast chasing butterflies and taking butterfly and moth photos.



We all enjoyed our morning in the forest. They children who were squabbling began to be good companions. I was able to get some exercise. And best of all, the three year old took a 1 hour nap this afternoon. I need to plan for more long walks.