In a little over an hour we had traveled, unloaded and set up in the Watagan national park, at the Gap Creek campground. It was the Easter long weekend, and we were grateful for a secluded spot that dropped down from the dirt road which had a campfire spot marked out ready for us to use. Setting up camp was a breeze with each of the kids taking on a role and getting on with the job, without being instructed. At one stage I stood back, proudly admiring the independent soles they each had become or were on their way to becoming, and glad that we had taken this opportunity to get away together.

The area that surrounded us was lush and green, and considering that rain fall has been nearly non existent lately, it surprised me that the bush has retained its beauty, that made it so inviting. What wasn’t so inviting was the leeches that inhabit the mountains, so many, that carrying salt with us became a necessity and soon the younger of us were dealing with them like experts, flinging them off and squishing them under their boots!

Later while sitting around the fire, I watched as my tribe cooked their marshmallows and sausages, each trying to get a word in, the conversations getting louder and rowdier, all the while filled with laughter. For others, looking into this scene, it would seem chaotic, but for me it’s bliss, it’s the loves of my life, travelling together.
Soon this scene was to be interrupted, with rain that descended like a wave from over the mountains surrounding us. Quickly we retreated to a tent, Uno cards at the ready, bunkering down for the rest of the night.

Clear skies and a light blanketing fog greeted us In the morning, and the short but steep hike down to the falls beckoned us to explore it. Slowly, we followed the weaving path as it snaked its way down, aware of how slippery it was underfoot as a result of the latest rainfall, and after a short distance we reached the falls with its clear pool and green mossy rocks surrounding it. Finding a rock, I again sat and watched, as each of my children explored the surroundings in their own way, finding their own challenges and enjoyment in just being in the moment.

Soon enough we were back home, back to our individual projects and interests,but happy for the chance to have spent time together as a family.

I’m am so grateful for these moments that we can all be together, knowing that time is fleeting as well as precious. One day too soon, my children will be grown up, possibly with their own families, and their own adventures, but I will know that I have taken every opportunity to travel, connect and make memories that I will cherish forever. Even if it is only on a short, overnight trip, close to home.

Take that opportunity to connect with your family and make memories……go travel.

Kerrie