By Ashley McIlwain

For most of my life I have had a strong affinity for parks. There is something about a lush, green park with towering trees that makes the worries and stresses melt away into a relaxing oasis of serenity. Whether I’m on a run, taking a walk, or lying on a blanket, it’s tough to beat the peacefulness and beauty of a park. Recently, I discovered another reason why parks are so great.

My husband and I don’t typically go for walks. We are more of the go-running-because-you-get-more-bang-for-your-buck kind of people. Bottom line, we like to maximize our exercising. But the other night we found ourselves taking a nice long walk in the park next door, which happens to be one of my favorite local parks. We quickly discovered that parks plus a walk together equals great quality time.

I’ve suggested the idea of taking a walk in the park to many people as a fun, free activity that yields great undistracted quality time together, but truthfully, it’s not something I’ve done often with Steve. After deciding to go for a pleasant walk together the other night though, that’s about to change. It was so wonderful just enjoying the beautiful scenery surrounding us while chatting about anything and everything all without the temptation to turn on a television or computer. Plus, there was the added health benefit of exercising amidst all of this fun.

We covered some serious ground both in conversation and actual mileage without even realizing it. At the end of an hour long stroll, we looked at each other and said, “We need to do this more often!” It really was the perfect way to enjoy undistracted quality time with one another while getting some exercise and soaking in the picturesque beauty of God’s creation.

The next time you and your counterpart are just sitting around or feeling stressed, needing quality time together or searching for a good conversation, looking for an escape or wanting to enjoy the outdoors, you’ve got to try taking a walk in the park. You might be like Steve and me, and find yourselves making a habit of it.

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