Out n' about

We're lucky to live right next to some hiking trails that lead to the local university, and also to a really cool playground (that is almost always empty). It's quite a popular track for runners, and also people out walking their dogs. We have our own private enterance to the trail as our property goes right up to the edge of it - so when we need to let Luca burn off some energy, if we're home, but no one is answering the door - check the trails!


For a bit of variety, we sometimes go to other nearby trails - these photos were taken a few weekends ago when the afternoon sun came out just long enough for us to go outside. The rain and wind had kept us cooped up inside all day. For the first time Luca feel asleep watching cartoons.

James and I are both looking forward to the day that we can do longer hikes with the boys, and then do some overnight hikes and stay in the Department of Conservation huts. I've posted about this before, but NZ has this amazing system of trails and huts that you can stay at. Just think how fun it will be when the boys are old enough to go tramping with us and they can also invite a friend to come along. Adventures abound!

I'm trying to make an effort to let the kids play outside as much as possible. I haven't been good at encouraging Luca to play outside this winter because our front/back yard and driveway has been one giagantic mud pit and lately it's been getting dark and cold around 5pm. I want both the kids to love the outdoors, so I'm going to make a real effort to play outside with them more. Besides hiking, our other favourite things to do are to go on 'bear hunts' around the property and on the trails, kick the soccerball around in the street, and visit random playgrounds throughout the city. One of the advantages of working at city council - you get to know where all the cool free things are located!