The word Adventure is used so often these days by everyone, for a myriad of reasons. The dictionary defines it as: engaging in an unusual or exciting activity. Usually the exploration of the unknown. Friends post pictures of wine tasting day trips, a hike in the woods, a date to the city. So what is Adventure?

My favorite adventure quote is this, by Yvon Chouinard, “Adventure truly starts when everything goes wrong”. While this may not seem encouraging, I love the honesty behind it. As a mom to four, I know this truth all too well.

The morning starts with a plan. Today we will…(fill in the blank). My alarm is set, coffee ready to brew, and a list of necessities on the counter. And then, something happens. My teenager stayed up too late finishing an essay, my other daughter can’t find the only shirt she wants to wear, the baby makes a huge mess with his blueberries, and my son lounges lethargically on the couch, and “can’t move”.  And again, I’m grumbling, “why can’t we just have one smooth morning?”

Finally, the gear is loaded, lunches packed, everyone dressed and in the car. Finally, the adventure begins. Or, has it already? As we venture off to our destination, music playing, discussion of the day’s tentative plan, I remember what matters most. We are all together, experiencing life on our own terms. No matter what the plan is for the day, hiking a new trail or driving to a new town just to try a pizza place, we are in our way adventuring. 

As a mom, I want to set an example for my kids. I want them to learn from me. To look back and have fond memories of their childhood. And so,we deal with hard days, arguments, disappointments, and come home feeling refreshed and more connected with one another. What more could I ask for? So as we make plans for our next adventure I will remember what my best friend and partner  has reminded me of “No plan ever survives first contact, intact”. Great advice for any adventure, no matter how big or small.