We have some new neighbors and they include children. I was mowing the lawn as they darted past me through our side yard and down the hill to the creek. I stopped the mower and as the engine went silent I heard one of them yell, "We're going to the creek!"
We are fortunate that even though we live in the city, we have the benefit of a lot that boarders a few wooded acres and a creek, complete with the remnants of an old mill wall. The greatest part of this event is that these children, ages 7-14, aren't sitting all day inside playing video games or online clicking through Facebook - they are outside, immersed in nature with old trees, clean running water, illusive crayfish and each other.
Here's what has them excited - care to come out and play?
That's an inspiring place to play, Kim.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was a kid, we played in forests and fields that looked much like this. We'd spend entire days there, returning just in time for dinner.
Today, the world seems to have changed, and not for the better. We watch our kids so much more closely that the thought of letting them roam the neighborhood is simply alien to us. We live near a conservation area, and we hike there as often as we can. But I fear something's been lost now that we can't just let them explore their world on their own.
That's in your backyard? Stunning. I love the image of the kids going there to play.
ReplyDeleteHi, Kim. Awesome picture. I love it when I hear about kids playing outside, instead of sitting around on the computer all day. Woods and water create an amazing place to learn and dream.
ReplyDeleteCarmi - yes. there is something that is in danger of getting lost
ReplyDeleteDena - yes. my back yard. you should come over and play - there are cats about.
Julie - nothing heals, and coaxes the imagination like a stream! add children's laughter and wham!