Backyard Field Trip: SOLSC 3 of 31

Currently, I am on leave from work to care for my youngest, who is doing school from home this semester. That is a story of its own, and I only share even that much for a bit of context to this story. 

We needed a break after working on biology and geometry, which are nothing to sneeze at when trying to learn online. I looked at Arie and said, "field trip!"

Arie wanted to get outside to gather some items for a little indoor garden they are making in their bedroom. So, we headed out, dog in tow, to the back yard to see what was growing and showing from under the beds of leaves and debris of winter melt.

As a kid, finding myself outside, I was always naturally curious. Arie is less curious about nature, but a definite peace comes over them when outside. While adventuring, we came across some of my favorite colors! We looked for broken nut shells and some good sticks too.

A bit of moss with greens and red was thriving in some areas. 

Not really that special, but a bit of green growing in what seemed like a spot all by itself. Ready to spread. 

A mossy rock! I loved the patterns of moss and light to dark coloring against the gray of the rock. It looked so settled and rested right there, just watching the woods. 

Arie and Cassie pulling ahead by a fallen tree. There were so many more down. Each year, more and more fall and create the most wonderful little hiding places for critters and greens to grow. 

Like little steps across this log, these fungi are just hanging out. 

Once we returned to the house, it was a rousing game of catch with the dog while Arie filled the bird feeders. It was a well-deserved and productive break. 

I will forever feel renewed and refreshed by being outdoors. I am always so grateful to know that I can go at any time to touch a tree, examine pine needles, and listen to the snaps below my feet in a quiet forest.