Last weekend we went for the nicest hike, a 3-mile loop in Castlewood State Park, which is located in Ballwin, MO. The drive there was short, but it felt like we were in a different state (which was the point). The nicest thing about doing hikes like this is that they can be done over the course of a morning and we’re still back for lunch, albeit pretty tuckered out and ready for a little lying around!
We started the hike later than expected because the kids wanted to play in the creek (no surprise there!). Milo found fish eggs (or salamander eggs?) under a rock and gave them a quick inspection before returning them exactly where he found them. He was so worried he had harmed them, sweet boy! 
All of the boys could have stayed next to the water for the whole morning, but Andrew and I were itching to get a good walk in. Once we got moving, the boys quickly fell into line and enjoyed themselves. Oliver kept repeating over and over again, this is so great! I love this, Mom! while we walked, which is funny, because he is pretty different on walks elsewhere. In nature, that kid just comes alive and becomes so positive and cheerful! 
The whole hike was great. The mosquitoes have yet to make an appearance, so it was really bug-free other than one tick Oliver found crawling on him. We made sure to check everyone once we got home too. Still, 100% worth it!
I’m already planning plenty of hikes with these guys this summer. It’s such a great way to bond as a family, as all the walking opens up so much time for just talking about things that we wouldn’t otherwise discuss. Maybe someday when these guys are a little older, we’ll tackle part of the Appalachian Trail together.
I love hiking there, but have definitely brought home ticks (those nasty things love me). I’m looking forward to doing more hiking when my youngest is a bit older. We have a carrier, but she is so insistent on walking that it’s hardly worth it.
Also, thinking of mosquitos reminded me that I wanted to ask where you bought your citronella plants!
Brooke, I think I picked it up at Home Depot when I was getting a few other things — it’s done surprisingly well! Usually I don’t buy plants from there, but this one looked so healthy and I love the idea of natural mosquito repellants.