The Cure for Stir-Craziness

Yesterday we HAD to get out of the house, so we decided to go for a little walk at the nearby forest preserve.  The sunshine and fresh air were just what the doctor ordered.  Being out in nature definitely does a body good!




The boys loved being "explorers" and following Dan through the woods.  I was happy to let him lead the way, as I'm not so adventurous.  I actually have an odd fear of nature at times.  For example, what if we come across coyotes?  Or what if we startle a deer who then tramples us in its disorientation?  You know, rational fears like that.  This was disappointing for Dan when we were in South Dakota a few years back and I wouldn't venture far from the car for fear we would be bitten by rattlesnakes or trampled by buffalo.  Perhaps I need help?  Anyway, I digresss.....



We had to move sticks...



and climb over tree trunks....



For as much as I fear wildlife, I do love the beauty of nature.  I was happy to look for any pop of green, even if it was moss! 






But there was also beauty in the monochromatic backdrop that secluded us from the hustle and bustle we are so used to. 







And Lolli was in her element, of course.  This picture cracks me up.  Dan let her off her leash for a bit and she went bananas.  She didn't run away, but she was dashing here and there.  She's definitely a huntin' dog!



We had fun looking for little treasures, like old pop bottles......




...and....umm....deer poop.....LOTS of it.....(sorry, I know that's gross!)...





This was such a nice diversion after a week of fevers and lethargy.  Made my spring fever just that much worse.