The boys awoke this morning. Sam says "sun." The rain has come back and he is not so happy about it. I am not afraid to take the boys in the rain and I note that we need to do something fun in the rain, but it is only 6 in the morning. The boys slept through dinner last night and we all need a good breakfast. But, the rain and perhaps the long night has put the boys in a crabby mood. Theo says, "mine" to each toy that S wants to play with. Instead of hugs there are head bonks and grabs. Finally after a bit of food and some fresh clothes I let the boys play on the porch. Fresh air is not enough. They want to roam. So we roam. Mostly by stroller this early morning as I am still too tired to be fully alert to every driveway at this hour.
As the blocks collect between ourselves and our house; I realize we all calm down. T doesn't seem so contrary. S is content. I let the boys out to walk near an especially pretty boulevard where I have spotted mint and irises. The boys use their senses: of touch, smell and sight. We hear a crow and T says, "loud."
I have just begun to read The Nature Principle by Richard Louv. Its subtitle is Human Restoration and the End of Nature-Deficit Disorder. After hearing speak a couple weeks ago I realized I was inspired to read his second book. I have heard some one critique the science in his research, but I think that even he would admit that the "nature factor" is sometimes hard to prove, yet the number people who find benefits and restoration by being in or even exposed to nature is undeniable and outstanding. What stands out in my mind today is that: Studies show that people who spend time in nature seem calmer and more clear headed.
Watching how my boys, and my own attitude changes in a single walk. I believe that the nature factor is huge. Outside whining stops. Feet run and play. There are no shortages of rocks and leaves and fresh air.
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