Woods Wind Wander

I would imagine that no matter where you live, there are aspects of it that you take for granted.  Oftentimes in looking for things to do or places to explore, it is easy to overlook the obvious (your own backyard or town!) and set your sights elsewhere.  I know that we certainly have.   If you live in a rural area, the connection to the outdoors is pretty obvious, you might even see critters that you don't necessarily want to (Hello, Snakes!), but even if you live in a city, there is almost certainly green space or botanical gardens to seek out. We are fortunate enough to live in a place that is undoubtedly suburban, but has a deep connection to nature at its core.  Yes, there are housing developments and small shopping centers like most suburbs, but they left the woods and mature trees up surrounding most areas so you are still flanked in forest when you are out walking your dog or driving to the grocery store.  Don't want to drive to the grocery store?...

Early one morning in the beginning of June, my boys and I left our house, sights set on Lake Fairfax.  Our backpacks were stuffed with snacks and water, cameras and binoculars, gloves and containers to examine any interesting critters that happened to be found.  We were set for a day in the woods, ready for adventure. Great Egret Lake Fairfax is a county run suburban park with many amenities.  It has a lake with various types of fish, a water park, a skate park, picnic pavilions, sports fields, and camp grounds.  It is easy to overlook as a local and turn to another park such as Great Falls or Riverbend, especially if you are looking to hike, but I highly suggest exploring it.  Go beyond the obvious attractions and head into the woods where a thick web of trails awaits your discovery. Over the years, my family and I have become intimately familiar with the park and trails as my sons' school has an annual cookout, and overnight camping trip there.  I have a...