If you have been following our Bryarton Farm journey, you know that we have been working on the farmhouse restoration constantly. We have been needing some time away from it all, so we decided take some time to just enjoy being together on a beautiful fall day. We hope that this post inspires you to spend a little time outside with the ones you love, so we are sharing 5 budget friendly ideas for a great fall family day away.
1. Stop and Appreciate the Leaves
They don’t smell as good as roses, but they are incredible to look at! Camdyn and Avonlee got excited about the colorful fall leaves because we got excited with them. Isn’t God the most amazing artist? Kansas could compete with New England with these tantalizing hues!
2. Feed the Ducks
The simple act of feeding some glutinous ducks with your children is oddly satisfying. The girls couldn’t get enough of that experience by the pond. The ducks were certainly glad to see us too!
3. Take a Trail Ride
We had a few left over tickets from Cami Grace’s birthday party so she was able to feed her obsession with ponies. Avonlee is too little to ride, but she had a blast cheering her big sister on as she rode by. I haven’t met a kid yet who doesn’t love a pony ride on a beautiful day!
4. Visit a Petting Zoo
Petting zoos are always a big bang for your buck. We spent hours petting and talking to all kinds of adorable farm animals. Avee Rose called all of them “Cow” because that is her newest vocabulary word and she loves to say it with expression. This cracked everyone up!
5. Take a stroll
The simple pleasure of taking a stroll is a long lost art in today’s fast passed lifestyle. It doesn’t cost a thing yet it affects the soul in amazing ways. Walking under the colorful fall boughs that Sunday after church brought new energy into our weary bodies. We truly felt energized and refreshed by our fall day out together.
Once in a while it is okay to take a day off.
Even the smallest moments spent giving your family your complete attention are moments that matter. We have very young children, but they still remember and respond to one-on-one attention. Sometimes I have to put down my paint brush for a minute and just give my girls a kiss. It makes them giggle and reassures them that although Mommy is always working on the farmhouse she still loves them bunches! Daddy feels a ton of pressure to give his family the “finished” home they need, but he has to remind himself to stop and give them the affection that they need even more.
Our babies will be grown up in a flash. So whatever crazy season of life your family is in, we hope we have inspired you to intentionally stop to enjoy the small everyday moments in the midst of the busyness and to work to create special memories together…
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Please join the conversation by leaving a comment below…
Wise, wise, words young woman!!! Life on this earth can become so overwhelming with work, managing possessions, hobbies, entertainment, etc. We overlook the blessings that are eternal, right under our nose. Your children are a precious gift from God as is His creation………….pay attention to these things. Life can change in an instant…….our son is fighting for his life right now.
I am so sorry to hear that Linda! We got on our knees this morning and will continue to pray for healing for your son. God will carry you when you don’t think you can continue…I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through, but I know there is comfort in Jesus.
First I must say, Linda, I also will get on my knees and ask for healing for your son. Sara, once again your post has touched me. Family. To me , it is everything! I hope one day you do a post on how to take such beautiful pictures!!