Nature has a way of slowing us down, instilling appreciation, providing daily sanctuary—walking, playing with the dog, breathing in the outside air, and feeling the sunshine. As an adult, it’s all too easy to get busy in the day-to-day and not take the time to notice and appreciate these moments. But as a child, I often did. I remember lying in the grass on windy days watching the clouds race, climbing a tree and observing the world below, playing ghost in the graveyard with the neighborhood kids in the dark, and chasing lightning bugs.

One recent morning, I completely lost track of time standing by the window, mesmerized by some birds in the backyard, flitting from branch to branch, singing back and forth to each other, puffing their chests immediately before proclaiming their song. I noticed a blue jay who perches in the branches of one of the evergreen trees. I look for him every morning now, to see the glorious color combination of his deep blue feathers and how they contrast against the dark evergreens. 

I noticed two bunnies who (even though they ate my tulips!) randomly appear and I watched them play tag with each other across the backyard, hiding and scurrying amongst the underbrush. And I was delighted when the daffodils appeared this year, their vibrancy immediately filled me with a sense of surprise and hopeful anticipation for the coming of spring. I just feel better when I take the time to breathe and soak it all in. 

Can you recall a time when you really noticed nature?

• Of trip you took- maybe fishing or camping, or waterfall or mountain sightseeing- tell others what those trips meant for you

• Look for and share photos that reflect these times

• Ask your family members (older ones especially) about special outdoor activities or trips they remember

• Ask your kids to describe one thing each day they notice outdoors

May you enjoy slowing down, sharing memories and maybe it can even inspire some new routines.