Go outside and play...

“Go outside and play!” We were told that often, perhaps daily, as kids…followed by, “and stay out!” Without toys to speak of, we jumped in the hay, “fished” for leaves in the neighboring brook, dug for precious jewels from the mica in the rocks. My children followed suit by swinging from trees, creating crop circles, leashing their goats and bunnies to romp through the backyard. At times it seemed like a punishment, as we were often not allowed back in for what seemed like hours. Now, I realize it set the stage for me wanting to be nowhere else. The housework will have to wait, there is so much waiting for me outside. So, on this Earth Day, take a walk on your lunch break, take a hike on a trail you’ve been wanting to visit, stare at and admire a daffodil, stick your hand in the ground, dance around the back yard and listen to the birds…go outside and play!