It's Kerri again, trying to live up to our New Year resolution of more outdoor family time. In January, we enjoyed the two full moons. In our February newsletter, Sabrina offered the challenge of an outdoor family picnic and bonfire. I knew my family was up to the challenge!
The picnic part is easy. My own Forest Explorer group frequently picnics as part of our meet up. I mean, c'mon, bring kids out in nature and all that fresh air instantly makes them starving! If we have the time and the weather isn't too cool, I frequently try to bring lunch to extend our outdoor play with friends each week.
However, finding weekend time to get the whole family (partner included) out in the woods to eat and have a fire.....that is a little more challenging. But isn't that the whole point? Dedicating more time to outdoor family adventures together?
Luckily, our backyard bumps up against the woods. We invited our friends from our local co-op over to enjoy the new snow, our outdoor fire stove, and shared food, laughs and warmth.
The new snow made it a wet start to the fire, but once it got going, it didn't just warm our hands, it warmed our hearts as well. What is it about an outdoor fire that brings people together? And helps them to really open up and enjoy each other? It worked in our case.
The children found animal footprints, played with sticks, climbed trees, looked under rocks, made snow soup, slid down hills, well, the list could go on and on. Overall they led the way to the play (and the learning) they wanted to have. It was a wet, muddy adventure, but the proper gear, warm fire and food kept them joyful and adventurous.
February is almost over, but the opportunity to take advantage of this challenge still exists. If you don't have an outdoor fire stove, we've talked to our local state park for areas that would be appropriate for a fire and enjoyed warmth with our Forest Explorer group. An added challenge is to cook your picnic food over the fire!
Do you get our newsletter to see our March challenge? It's easy to sign-up here. And if you'd like to post pictures or tell us about your outdoor family adventures, we'd love to hear and see them! Be sure to tag us!
