A Walk in the Forest

Our word of the year has been intention. We have making efforts to be more intentional about the choices we make, the thoughts that enter our heads, the way we solve problems, the energy we invest in our business, and most importantly, the way we spend our time as a family. We want our time together to be just that: time together. We want to be engaged and interacting with one another, and free from outside distractions.

One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways our family connects is by taking a walk. Whether we’re meandering through our neighborhood, making a lap around the local park, or strolling on the coast, we really love walking together. Technology gets tucked away, and we focus our senses on each other and the world around us. We share the ideas that have been floating in our heads. We search for interesting collections. We make plans for future adventures. We talk through our dreams and visions for the future. Walks are a really magical time for the four of us.

On a recent trip to the cottage we decided to forgo our usual daily beach walk, and instead explore a nearby forested hillside. It was so exciting to share this little adventure as a family and experience someplace new together.

A few minutes into our walk, Isaac spotted this little rough skinned newt. Of course, Isla instantly fell in love and asked to hold it.

Cole was reaching for every low hanging leaf he could!

Years ago, someone drug this old rowboat up the hillside and left it. Over the years it filled with forest debris, which made the perfect bed for various plants and small trees to take up residence.

As the forest opened, blackberry briars began lining the path. Isaac and Isla had a fabulous time picking and eating!

A break in the trees allowed us to take a peek at the lake and coastline below. We look out over these bodies of water every day from the cottage, but it is nice to have a little change of perspective.

Hello, Wayfarer Cottage! Our little slice of heaven is right in the middle of the photo, behind the two large trees.

We found another newt friend as we finished our hike. This little one was attempting to make it across the road, so we helped it along in it’s journey… after giving it a little love, of course. Isla had a smile plastered across her blackberry-stained face the entire time!

I know it sounds completely crazy to say, but this little newt really seemed to like Isla, and it hung out quite contentedly on her arm.

After picking Newty the newt off of the road, and giving it a few minutes of snuggles, Isla found a nice patch of damp grass and leaves, far from the danger of tires, to place her little friend. This photo makes my heart melt, and has quickly taken its place as an all-time favorite. I just love her sweet body language, and the tenderness of her hands as she coaxes the newt on its way. We are so thankful for this little girl and her enormous heart!

I look through this collection of photos and cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude! I am also so proud of our family for continually working to connect and live our lives with intention. Our time together is the greatest gift we have!