Fun meets fitness at kids' boot camp

Yesterday was a three-swim day. Literally, I went swimming three times. I also played tennis and backyard volleyball. This summer, you see, I enrolled in kids' boot camp. It's not a formal, structured workout regime. Rather, my children and I figure it out day-by-day, with a focus on being outside as much as possible, spending time together, and exercising through sports and adventure more often than at the gym.

So far this summer, in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, we hiked the Skyline Trail where we had a close encounter with a moose, and we jumped like salmon over Mary Anne Falls to swim in the deep and clear water pooled below.

Back in mainland Nova Scotia we body surfed at Cleveland Beach, and kayaked across Kejimikujik Lake while the croaking of bullfrogs filled our ears. We regularly cycle on woodland trails, run outside and play soccer rain or shine. On really dreary days, we move the games indoors, playing ping-pong, or going to the rock climbing gym.

I'm lucky my kids are active, and are still young enough to want to hang-out with me. On their schedule (bed around 10 p.m., get up when you wake up), eating lots of fresh, local produce and by saying "yes" as often as I can, I feel fit, rested and mentally healthy. Having kids is not a prerequisite to this: anyone can exercise like a child, focusing on fun and play only to discover with that, comes fitness.

I do miss writing and feel pangs of guilt I'm not posting on this blog more often. I miss, too, the stimulation and inspiration my work provides during busier periods. But I'm also grateful I was able to carve out a change in routine, knowing it is only temporary. Thank you for checking in and I promise that soon I'll be back to posting more regularly and with more depth. I'm reading a ton and banking life experiences and observations I can't wait to explore through my writing. I have a few exciting projects already lined up for September and remain open, as always, to connecting with clients to discuss collaborations.

In the meantime, another day at kids' boot camp beckons! Enjoy your summer everyone.