One day last week we had an early morning jaunt to see the Cherry Blossoms at High Park. They only last about a week and I was wary of visiting over a weekend because of the drones of people who descend on the park for this special annual treat. As luck would have it I had a weekday day off in time. We spent a good ninety minutes walking around the beautiful grounds, getting a bit lost and taking note of various birds and wee creatures. The following hour was spent supping a cup of very good tea in an outdoor cafe while the children played.
Time and time again I’m amazed at how much there is to do for free. For the cost of petrol + my “breathe and pretend I’m in the English countryside” cup of tea, we had a perfectly lovely morning out. Total spend no more than $4, approximately £3. We all got some lovely exercise, we learned about and enjoyed nature and we connected as a family.
Thanks to the nature challenge and my own resolve that most of our leisure time will be spent enjoying local nature, rather than at activities, we are spending more and more time outdoors. And I’m thrilled, particularly as this was such a strange novelty to my children when they arrived {my poor son would often look at me quizzically and ask why we don’t just watch a movie}, I’m amazed at how much my children have embraced this outdoor simple life. When I tell them about our next adventure, all I hear are squeals of delight. No moans, no grumbles, no arguments. Perhaps not watching tv or having any access to electronics has “re-set” their interests a bit, I’m not really sure. All I know is days like our day at High Park, make me so proud of the two souls who call me Mummy.
