To the woods, to the trails!
Run to Write's encouragement this week.
Delaney and Brindsley have been “training” for The Michael French Memorial Meals on Wheels of Western Broome 5K Run/Walk since the end of August. I put training in quotes— really they’ve been running for play.
Each Tuesday and Thursday we pick trails to run on to explore and have fun. We’re lucky to have so many options to choose from.
The first time I took the kids to Green Lakes State Park, they announced “We’re going to run around the lake together Mom.” Off they went around the bend as I called, “Stick together.”
I’m getting better at letting go so they can grow.
I smiled as I walked alone enjoying the changing colors along the trail. I slowed down. I paused to watch the fish swim, to look out over the water, and to listen.
When I met back up with them Delaney shouted, “Mom, I ran around the entire lake without stopping!”
I gave her a high five. This was something to celebrate. The lake is just shy of 2 miles.
My daughter doesn’t love to run yet she keeps choosing to show up.
She continued, “It didn’t seem like we ran that long, Brindsley and I were talking about our stuffed animals.”
I nodded, “Isn’t it great to have a run buddy.”
Brindsley grinned, “Delaney didn’t complain at all, Mom.”
We laughed.
Delaney smiled, “It’s fun running on the trails.”
She expressed how much she enjoyed running around the lake. It was a needed boost to her confidence and she was having fun. We chose this location for the last two weeks leading up to Saturday’s run.
Each time I held back while they took off running.
A reminder for me to let my kids go. Give them freedom, unstructured play, and space.
A reminder to make moving in nature a priority— every day we will get outside no matter what.
I see the impact on their well-being and the importance of building a relationship and appreciation for the Lord’s creation.
What do you see? What do you hear? What do you smell? What do you feel?
We are paying attention and unplugging to notice.
How about you?
Keep your eyes out for Thursday’s post. I hope to get Brindsley and Delaney on the Run to Write Podcast to chat about their Saturday 5Krace. You won’t want to miss it!
And you’re invited to write with us in communal silence today! We meet at 11 am (EST). Click the button below to join our Zoom room.
P.S. A few posts back I mentioned the kids called me “Mama Moose.” ( I have no idea why.) Mary B. generously created the artwork above. Thank you so much. We love it!
Love the collab with Mary!
Reading your post was uplifting and joyful, Julie! Our falls are drab in comparison with your fall leaves. I did find a solid yellow leaf from a wild cherry tree this am;-)
Your success as a mom is reflected in your confidence about letting them run around the lake, without you slinking through the woods to monitor their activity. Freeing for all. Good days are often because we make them so.