Recovering from seasonal flu (a gift from the educational system), we spent the first half of the Easter holidays in bed. I usually manage to get the kids through it without antibiotics, but this time I had to give in and take them for a check-up. A few days of proper rest, and thankfully everyone was back on their feet.

Easter was a gentle reset. We shared a simple family meal and enjoyed a quick but joyful egg hunt in the garden. On Easter Monday, we joined a “scavenger egg hunt” at a nearby farm—an adventure that fully lived up to its name. I noticed some seasoned moms tackling the trail by bike, which felt like a glimpse into our future. We walked the full 5.5 km instead—laughing, sweating, navigating a few tears, and soaking in the early spring warmth.
Note to self: next year—bikes only.

Golf season is back, and our eldest has joined the junior group at the local club. He proudly carries his clubs to each lesson, eager to learn. Most sessions take place on the range or in the academy, and his excitement is contagious.

I’ve stayed consistent with my morning walks since mid-February. With longer days and warmer weather, we’re naturally shifting into more bike adventures too. This month: 11 morning walks and 10 days on the bike.

One highlight was a trip to Locarno with friends and their two kids. We made a very worthwhile stop at what might be the best ice cream spot in the region—huge scoops, no regrets. Most of our rides took us along the sandy river beaches, which are quickly becoming a favourite.

One day, I took all three kids out on the bike—one riding independently and two with me. It wasn’t exactly smooth (a few technical hiccups along the way), but we made it home safely, and I felt ridiculously accomplished.
Note to self: with a bit more practice, I’ll manage one child on the back and one asleep in the double Thule. Goal for this summer. Worst case—I build some much-needed muscle.

Our favourite adventure spot, Wonderwood, is officially open for the season. It runs on weekends and bank holidays, and we usually go for the “plus” ticket (return within 14 days for a small extra fee). As I’ve mentioned before, it truly offers something for everyone. (Linking our previous visit and latest High5 sensory check-in here.)

With warmer weather, birthday parties in Ticino have moved outdoors again. This month included a beautiful double birthday celebration in nature, up on Monte Verità. It felt just as much like a parents’ gathering as a kids’ party—children roaming freely through the woods, while we chatted nearby. As usual, I found myself stationed at the playground with my two youngest, catching toddlers mid-tumble alongside a few wonderful moms.

May in Planning

• Bank holidays
• Two family birthdays
• Mother’s Day
• Trip to Hungary
• School trips and open days

1000 Hours Outside Challenge

We passed the 300-hour mark in April, spending over 110 hours outdoors together. As the days stretch longer, it becomes easier to say yes to going outside—even when it feels inconvenient.

In just over a month, school will be out. And with it, a little more freedom to shape our days around fresh air, movement, and time together.

Even in the messy weeks—the sick days, the logistical chaos, the moments of doubt—getting outside continues to be the one thing that grounds us. Not perfectly, but consistently.