January 13th and it 73 degrees. If you are from the Midwest, like me, the odds of that happening are slim to none. Now this is only my second winter here in South Carolina and I have come to realize that even though the winters here are mild, a winter day in the 70’s is still hard to come by in the South.

Now I had laundry, lesson planning, dishes….and my to do list could go on, but I think you get the point. I told myself we should stay in but I knew we had to seize the day! After all the housework would still be there after dark.

We decided to pack a picnic and head to one of my favorite places: Kings Mountain National Park and Kings Mountain State Park. The best part of the trip –my husband was able to go.

The kids and I have hiked the trails, earned our Junior Ranger badges for the Battle of Kings Mountain, and have our special secluded location we love to go to by the water at Kings Mountain. But until this point we have not been able to share the experience with my husband.

Hiking, climbing, exploring and learning history consumed our afternoon. Breathing in fresh air while being surrounded by the tall trees was surreal. Taking a step out of the hustle and bustle to the peacefulness of the wooden terrain is what I have grown to love about living in South Carolina.

I am truly thankful for the brief warm weather this weekend and I’m happy I took the opportunity to unplug the kids from electronics, turn off Sunday football and put off Sunday housework. The end result ? — a relaxed mom ready to tackle the chores and a happy family who added memories for years to come! If your heart is calling you outside —listen! Nature has a way of bringing the family together. It also helps you revitalize, relax and, clear your thoughts in the peacefulness and beauty of the great outdoors.

Sword fighting with dad