Finding joy, like any good journey or adventure is not always easy. The rewards though usually make up for the work. The following list is a number of things that we did that had a beneficial impact on our family life. It certainly is not a list of 25 commandments, pick and choose things that speak to you, try them out and make them your own if you like them. Children do not come with a manual for a reason. Every child and every family is different, finding your way is an individual journey.  Happy navigating, good luck and enjoy.

The First 6 Months:

Nothing prepares you for the first time a baby happens. Nothing. I am glad that my experiences outdoors supported my flailing immersion into fatherhood: 

• During alpine climbing you have to wake up between midnight and three am to miss the increased hazards that occur later in the day.  This is great preparation for the inconsistent sleep patterns inspired by a newborn.

• Expeditions create alternating waves of euphoria and frustration.  While you are excited to be out in the wilderness it is not always easy.  Wow, parenthood is the same.  

• Kayaking in gorges away from a road taught the MacGyver mentality - fixing situations with limited resources.  

• Rock climbing is based on the implicit trust of a partner, parenthood is the same - look after each other.  

BE KIND TO YOURSELF AND GET OUTSIDE!

The Early Years

And as They Get Older

Incorporated Links:

Why wear babies? http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/health-concerns/fussy-baby/baby-wearing/benefits-babywearing 

Chariot Cougar Stroller http://www.thule.com/en-us/us/products/active-with-kids/strollers/multisport-trailers/thule-chariot-cougar-1-_-10100534 

Hike it Baby https://hikeitbaby.com 

Heaven on Earth http://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Earth-Sharifa-Oppenheimer-ebook/dp/B005S0ELFM/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

The Paradox of Choice www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TDGGVU/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?ie=UTF8&btkr=1 

Open to Outcome http://www.amazon.com/Open-Outcome-Facilitating-Experiential-Reflection/dp/1885473591

Inner Kids http://www.susankaisergreenland.com/inner-kids.html 

Where the Fruit is

Do our 25 tips speak to you? Try the following.

Imagine a family life filled with joy. Countless blissful moments. Everybody happy to hang out together. Beautiful, boisterous, breakfasts. Deliciously, delightful, dinners. Weekends you all look forward to. Does this sound fanciful?  It doesn’t have to be, you all deserve it. First define your family values. What is important and why. Then you will able to create a plan to live authentically and joyfully. 

We love helping families to flourish. Use the Contact page to reach out.