'splorin'

One thing our family agrees on is 'spolrin', floaty skirts optional.

There is something about being outside, away from technology and out in the open, that seems to be good for our souls. 

As parents we now recognise when it's been too long since we've been out exploring. The kids get cross more easily and we feel a little trapped even in our home. 

I firmly believe that people are not designed to be indoors as much as we are, despite what English weather would have us think.

We all need a good 'splorin' session every so often. A chance to breathe more deeply and question the really important things - "like what lives in this hole?!"

And it helps me as a parent to see my children's perspective more easily. What makes them stop. Which route do they choose? What stick is best for beating down ferns.

And even when I get a bit distracted from the kids. It's only because I have this gorgeous hunk with me. 

And although my motherly instincts would love to walk first and check for holes, nettles and mud...it is so good for them to be the ones to analyse and make the decisions. And really good for me to get used to that.

Olivia

conkers

I'm really behind on sharing what we've been up to. So this will be mostly images from some of my favourite moments from the last six months.

These are from Naburn during prime conker collecting season.

And in case you're wondering why I'm never in any of the shots, it's because I'm exactly this photogenic:

Lawrance holiday '13

On the last week of our summer holiday we packed up our car and drove to meet my family in Middleham. 

Being in a converted school house was amazing, ooposite a castle was breathtaking. 

I loved the space, and the original features.

But none of it could touch the feeling of spending so much uninterrupted time with our family.

My children are utterly spoilt for attention when the Lawrance's get together. 

And I think it's incredibly good for them! 

They learnt about fish from their dad...

(and nail art from auntie Rosie)

...climbing over rocks, patience, determination and stamina from aunties and uncles...

...and they explored until their heads hit their pillows at night.

I hope Ethan never forgets how many times grampy got down on the floor to play with him.

And that Izzy remembers how uncle dave ran round the garden with her as it got dark retrieving her frisby every time.

It makes me feel wonderfully grateful to recognise the amazing family I am a part of, both the ones on this holiday, and the others that we have.

I'm glad that when I feel overwhelmed with all Andy and have that we want to teach my children, that we're not having to do it alone.

We have a huge support network helping us with every age. 

And I think if I were my mum watching scenes like these I'd be glowing too. 

(Look! I'm actually in a photo!)