I've decided I need more nature in my life. Yesterday I took the Monkeys and Pepe for a short hike in the canyon next to our home. It was beautiful and really fun. Elder Monkey was complaining before we left. It would be hot, he'd rather go to an amusement park (he's rebelling against me telling him we were going to focus on "free" fun stuff for the next little while). We drove all the way to the top and took about a 3 mile hike (fairly easy). Pepe was in heaven. All the wildflowers were in bloom and the creek wasn't too swift so he could run and play in it. At the bottom there is a place where the creek pools, we spent a long time splashing around in the river. It was a really nice way to spend the afternoon.

I realized that I am literally surrounded by such incredible opportunities to spend time in nature. After I spend time in the great outdoors I feel so peaceful and refreshed. I've decided it is time to make spending time in nature a high priority for me and my kids. For the most part it is free and it is such quality time.