August 30: Nature day in the trees

Almost like a scene from Caps for Sale

I hosted nature group this week, choosing a sweet little spot in some low-growing live oaks. I'd hoped the trees would invite climbing and provide shade, and they definitely did that. Younger kids were able to scramble up the low branches, and older kids could climb quite high.

Older kids opted to take the 2 mile hike out to a small cave. Peter went off with his friend, alone. It tested my boundaries, but I trusted the two of them together, even if they did return with full water bottles.

(Really, the only danger were rattlesnakes, coyotes, and bobcats. The mountain lions don't prefer the daytime hours. So, you know, no big deal.)

Lucy made the hike out to the cave as well, although she went with a larger group that included adults. I don't think she's quite ready to make that type of hike herself, based only on her reaction when she sees an earwig.

Thomas spent most of his time with another friend and a set of walkie-talkies. Lots of little-boy play with sticks (still not effectively banned, you see), ninja moves, and exploration. No tears, so I can only call it a success.

(Mary spent her time either eating snacks or antagonizing her little friend. Because: three year old.)

I happened to see that it was "National Toasted Marshmallow Night," and as I take all of my best ideas from random calendars published in small-market newspapers, I knew we had to celebrate. Fire pit and leftover birthday party marshmallows!