Last fall I read about a new work of art located in a state park nearby. A fallen red oak tree was transformed by chainsaws and featured carvings of various animals. It quickly went on my future “to see” list.
Between weather, holidays, and general life, it hadn’t happened. On Saturday, I decided to change that. It was cold – the thermometer read 40 degrees fahrenheit. I was exhausted from a morning workout class. But the kids were full of energy and the sun was out. So why not take a short hike in search of the chainsaw art?
We bundled up and headed for Umstead State Park. The 3 year old full of excitement. The 8 year old less amused. Instead wanting to stay home and play on a tablet. He got into the adventure pretty quickly though.
While we’ve visited Umstead many times in the past few years, we were going to be exploring a new area so I quickly reviewed the route to take before we hit the trail. Barely into the hike and a certain 3 year old happily jumped onto my back for a ride in her Lillebaby CarryOn. A few steps later and she was sound asleep. Apparently she still needs those naps she fights.
We continued onward, double checking our instructions a couple of times. Then we quickly spotted it in the distance. This red oak is huge and immediately adjacent to the path. There is no missing it.
The carvings are beautiful. I was grateful I chose to carry my DSLR with me and took quite a few photos – all while our little one napped on my back.
After taking time to view the art and pausing so the kids to play at another fallen tree along the trail, we began our journey back toward the car. I also finally thought to get a quick photo of all 4 of us – including a now awake toddler. Apparently, that little power nap was all she needed. She missed the chainsaw art so we’ll have to bring her back to see it again.
Our adventure was successful in wearing me out. I think the kids may have had even more energy afterward than before! Next time, we’re taking a longer hike and both are walking the entire time.
Have you been out for a hike recently?
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