Many of the things I know about nature I have learned from my son, Stephan. Everything from how to really enjoy the outdoors (allowing myself to be surprised and engaged), to getting as much as I can from its healing powers. But the truth is, I wasn't always an outdoor person. This is just one of many gifts Stephan has presented me with since he came into my life. We try to get out as much as we can: we go biking, hiking, swimming. We go to the park or take little walks around the neighborhood. We throw rocks into the river, collect pretty leaves, stop to watch the birds, the flowers, the people in a hurry... and we stay outside for as long as we can, because that usually means a happier kiddo and a happier mommy. Nature helps us stay relaxed, focused and recharged. This winter we'll be sledding again and we'll try to make it to the local playground most days of the week, scraping the ice off the slides and building snow castles; and as time goes by and he continues to grow, going out provides us with more and more possibilities to have fun. My Stephan truly is an outdoor baby and I'll do anything and everything to support and encourage his love of nature. He eats better, sleeps better and conects better with us when he's been outside. And honestly, it doesn't get any better and easier than this: it's cheap therapy for me and a world of things to see and learn from for him... and all we have to do is open the door (literally) to the new adventures and experiences life has to offer.