Campfire Chat: Quiet Houses, Bug Battles & the Case for Slowing Down
Welcome to Campfire Chat—a cozy corner where I share my thoughts, what’s growing in my backyard, and perhaps inspire a new habit or book. Here's what’s been crackling this week.
🤫 On in the Background
Silence. Glorious, golden silence. For the first time in what feels like forever, I have the house to myself. Our daughter is back from college, my husband just started his summer break from teaching, and we’ve hosted many guests. It’s been lovely, loud, and lively.
But today? It's just me, the quiet, and my to-do list. I miss the hubbub, but I needed this moment of peace.
📖 On My Nightstand
I picked up The Science of Plants: Inside Their Secret World by DK Publishing at the Book Warehouse sale. It’s a book that makes you pause and think. How do plants actually work? The way they adapt, communicate, and support ecosystems is fascinating.
It reminded me of our piece on how ancient Egyptians revered animals. If we understood flora and fauna a bit better, we might treat the Earth—and each other—with more respect.
🧠 On My Mind
Confession: I am itching to camp. Physically and mentally itching. But my husband and I are juggling our own businesses and supporting each other. Free weekends? Ha! Yet, I feel the toll of missing nature.
Why do we glorify busyness and undervalue rest? I challenge myself (and you) to reclaim little slices of time outside. It may mean saying no to other commitments. Your nervous system will thank you for it.
🦟 On the Ground
Speaking of camping, the recent rain has been quite abundant. What started as welcome hydration turned into backyard puddles and a mosquito boom. Enter: Frank’s Skeeter Sticks. I’m obsessed! These sticks come with me everywhere—campgrounds, gardens, and even outdoor movie nights.
They smell great, actually work, and won’t harm your skin or the planet. As we wrap up Mosquito Awareness Week (yes, that exists), stock up and thank me later!
🏕 Basecamp
Lately, I’ve been trying to turn mundane tasks into mini meditations. Folding laundry, unloading the dishwasher, and even long showers have become little time-outs for my body and mind. We can’t always escape to the woods, but we can create small pockets of peace, right in the middle of our daily mess.
The Importance of Slow Living
In our fast-paced world, slowing down is vital. We often rush from one task to the next, missing the beauty of the present moment. Taking time to breathe and appreciate our surroundings is essential. It revitalizes our minds and spirits.
Consider integrating small practices of slow living into your routine. Whether through mindful walks in nature or quiet evenings at home, these moments can change your perspective.
Building Nature Connections
Connection with nature doesn't have to be grand. Even small moments outdoors can nurture our souls. For instance, garden maintenance, bird watching, or simply enjoying the sunset can enhance our appreciation for life.
Taking time outdoors helps us disconnect from our busy minds. We become attuned to the rhythms of nature, leading to more significant insights and creativity.
Prioritizing Well-being
It’s crucial to prioritize well-being amidst life's chaos. Choose to engage in activities that nourish you, whether reading, cooking, or exploring the local trails. Striving for balance in our lives is an ongoing process.
Remember to take breaks, practice self-care, and listen to your body's needs. Reclaiming rest and relaxation ultimately benefits not only ourselves but our families and communities too.
Why listen to me?
Because I’ve spent the last 15 years writing about the outdoors and conservation, often with muddy boots, dirt under my nails, and too many bug bites to count.
I’m a certified Bee-Friendly Gardener, a Pollinator Steward, and a volunteer with those who care about bats, trails, and treading lightly. I’m also a DarkSky Advocate and a proud member of the SC Native Plant Society, The 89 Percent Project, and 1% for the Planet.
My backyard wildlife habitat—certified by the National Wildlife Federation, Pollinator Partnership, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology—is a wild little résumé of its own.
I started Field Trip for those who’d rather be outside. Now, I focus on researching, asking too many questions, and turning what I learn into stories that help people fall in love with the outdoors. I want to inspire everyone to protect our planet.
Thanks for being here with me.
