Longtime readers of this blog know I’m all about connecting kids and nature. But what about us non-kids? How often do you spend time in nature, without the kids?
At the start of 2012, I made a promise to myself: To spend more “me time” outside. For me, that meant heading to the trail. Since I prefer not to hike alone, I enlisted the help of two friends who were willing to commit to hiking with me one morning a week each (when the kids are happily occupied at school and preschool).
Making that promise was one of the best things I’ve could have done for myself. I had no idea at the time just how much joy these morning walks would bring (especially those in the rain).
Today, I wanted to share just a small piece of what’s waiting out there for you to discover, too.
1. Wildlife galore
I’ve seen so many interesting critters on the trail since I started my weekly hikes – from newts, rabbits and hawks to mating lizards, loping deer, even an owl. There’s never a dull moment.
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| A great blue heron takes flight among the cherry blossoms |
2. New-to-you local plants, rocks & more
Without the kids alongside, it’s me who gets to ooh and ahh at pretty flowers, cool rocks and awesome trees. Sometimes, I’m even lucky enough to identify something I see along the trail by sharing a picture with followers on Facebook or Instagram.
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| Cacti spotted along the Rivas Canyon Trail in Temescal Gateway Park |
3. Local nature gems
I had no idea how many miles of hiking trails exist in Los Angeles alone. There are all kinds of settings to explore too, from forested areas to lakeside trails or mountain peaks. Each one offers its own reward.
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| Eaton Canyon Waterfall |
4. The chance to be a kid again
While it’s true I enjoy playing a lot with my kids, there’s something different about playing without them. There was the time I went zipping through the treetops and another time when I got to have a tree swing all to myself.
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| Playing along the Sullivan Canyon Trail |
5. Peace, quiet & tranquility
Yes, I enjoy chatting when I hike; in fact, my friends and I view our time on the trail as talk therapy. But more than anything I treasure the chance to just be in nature. To sit on the edge of a rock at the end of the trail and not worry about a thing in the world other than enjoying the moment. Yeah, it feels that good.
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| Peace atop Eagle Rock in Topanga State Park |
Here’s wishing you some “me time” in nature soon.
I hear you, Dawn. I think finding time for ourselves is one of the biggest challenges of motherhood.
That is great you get that time. It is few and far between for me but when it does come I treasure it!
You are a constant reminder of just how important it is to get outside solo or with friends (even furry ones). Thank you!
Love me time on the trail! I can't get enough of it. I'm so glad you are getting a weekly dose.