After a slow, easy morning, our bellies are full from breakfast, the house still smells of coffee beans, and I know the shift from calm to chaos is near. Sweet morning moments, snuggling in our jammies, and the few sips of coffee in peace, will soon turn into bike races around the house, fighting over a toy I haven’t seen in months, and shrieks that echo into the depths of my brain. It’s not even 8 o’clock.

If I’ve learned anything as a mother, its the sooner we get outside, the better. This isn’t necessarily an easy task, but it’s always worth it. The chaos continues as I get us all dressed, teeth brushed, snacks packed and out the door. But soon, we’re outside.

As quickly as our sweet morning turned chaotic, I feel my body regulating, a deep breath making its way into my belly, and for a few moments, all I hear is the sounds of birds chirping. The boys’ attention has shifted from ownership of the best toy, to wonder and curiosity for the world around them. We take a moment to breathe in the cool morning air. I ask them what they hear, encouraging connection and embodiment. They notice the sound of a waterfall below, squirrels playing in the trees and a “choo choo” train in the distance. We have made it. It’s going to be a beautiful day.

I equip the boys with jars and we eagerly trot down the trail, on the lookout for blackberries. My youngest yells, “there’s one!” and his brother runs over to assist in the picking. We all work together, foraging until our containers spill over. This is the stuff of life.

There’s something about foraging that sparks so much joy within me. I feel so connected to the world around. I feel immense gratitude. I feel productive. I feel resourceful. I feel calm, a welcome change from the anxiousness that comes with busy. I love how simple it is. How accessible it is. Although my foraging skills are limited to these blackberries, pine needles for tea, and cedar for all my Christmas decor projects, I love it.

I also love watching my children enjoy something so simple. I love the way they turn into little explorers, hand in hand venturing into the trees. I love how happy they are. I love how curious they are. I love how, in their presence, I reconnect with my own sense of wonder. I slow down. I love how it feels like time has slowed. For just a moment, I have pressed pause and they get to stay this little, on a forest walk with mama.

Whether it be foraging, some big outdoor outing, a simple nature walk, or playtime in our backyard, we’re all better for it. It’s not always easy, it takes intentionality, AND it’s always the best decision. There’s joy to be had outdoors. Go find it. That’s where we’ll be.

Be sweet to yourself,

Holly