Smiths On The Run

I’ve been trying this thing called “slowing down.” You May have heard of it? It’s new to me, but apparently with the hustle of today’s world (picture four littles demanding attention 24/7) we can become overwhelmed.  It’s easy to do, run run run RUN... until you haven’t physically gone anywhere- but are completely exhausted from the trip. Parenting is like that, and I’m sure for the men and working women out there they too can relate. Sometimes we need to just breathe.  In and out. Slow down. Just watch what you are doing, watch your hands as they grip the coffee mug, the coffee pot pitcher, see the extra bold beans of heavenly sweetness drip down into your cup. Take a sip. Then another. Breathe.  Remember even when the chaos (and boy do I know what I’m talking about here!) is flying in your face... you can breathe. Take the time to do the dishes, fold the laundry or even just sip your coffee. Life is short, remember to slow down and let the waves of time freeze for a few moments. Ali 

For weeks in advance, chatter was passed around of the trip to come. The boys had in depth conversations about what “survival weapon” they would bring and why. Harrison mentioned one large gray Gerber brand because it would “take down a tree if we have to.” (Though we all know Daddy had the real saw for that!) They were planning and planning. Begging to go to any sports style store to check out what they *may* need and dream of what gear they want next. Each kid has a pack already, a sturdy overnighter for each boy and Charlotte a simple little girl daypack (that she LOVES and literally wears all the time. Even to eat dinner.) ❤️ The morning came of June 18th; bags were packed and bulging, sleepy eyes were not quite aware of what was to come. We were so excited to go to this mysterious place called Duffy Lake. A place where Dylan had been going for years but we had only heard stories of! We loaded up, stuffing our massive packs in the Yukon wherever we could- and headed to drop off th

Traveling with kids can be tough when you are just getting started. Over our nine years parenting we have learned quite a bit about what’s helpful on various trips. We wanted to share a few “hacks” that may be of help to you! Below are two lists, short day trips and short day trips with infants. (Think diapers and wipes, carriers and things of that sort not needed with older children.) Things we take on our trips: • Day Trip • Hike/Adventure • Recreational pass if needed for location Refillable water bottle Food/Snacks (Ideas coming soon!) Pony tail holders/hats Toilet Paper/personal essentials Bag for taking garbage home with you Camera/Phone Bug Spray (If during peak months!) First Aid Kit Small multi use knife tool for emergencies Comfortable Clothing/Shoes Small backpack for items Day Trip • With Infants • Same as above Infant carrier (Ergo or similar brand) Older kids carrier (Kelty or similar brand) Stroller (if going to paved location- so handy!) Diapers Wipes Binkie (If used) B