{Broken Bow // Day 1}

Back to Broken Bow: A Place That Feels Like Home 

There are places in life that leave their mark—not because of anything extravagant, but because of the memories made there. For me, Broken Bow and Beaver’s Bend State Park is one of those places. Nestled in the Kiamichi Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma, it’s more than just a beautiful destination—it’s a place woven into the fabric of my life and our family's story.

Over 23 years ago, I went camping there for the very first time with Nathan and his family. It was only the second camping trip I’d ever taken with them, but even then, something about it felt familiar—like a place I’d known forever. That trip marked the beginning of so many traditions, inside jokes, long hikes, campfires, and late-night card games. Over the years, we’ve returned again and again, and each visit has only deepened that sense of connection.

One of the things I cherish most is that now we get to bring Mason along for the journey. Watching him discover the magic of a place that holds so many of our memories is incredibly special. Whether we’re hiking to the Indian Hole, skipping rocks near the Spillway, or roasting marshmallows under the stars, I can’t help but think about how this place has come full circle—how what was once new to me is now part of his childhood too.

Growing up, it was a tradition for the Halls to head to Broken Bow the week after Christmas. I’ll always be grateful that they started inviting me on those trips when Nate and I began dating. It quickly became something I looked forward to every year. I remember how quickly I learned where all the favorite spots were—where to hike, where to fish, and where the best skipping rocks were found. The week after Christmas became “our” week, a time to slow down, disconnect from the busy pace of life, and just be together.

As the Hall boys grew up and started families of their own, the tradition took a pause. Life got busier, and getting everyone together wasn’t quite as easy. But Nate and I made it a point to keep going—especially for Mason. Even if it was just the three of us, we would find a few days to make the trip, explore the trails, and keep that connection to nature and family tradition alive.

So this year, when we were able to revive the tradition in full after Christmas, it felt like a homecoming in every sense of the word. We packed up the day after Christmas and headed to Broken Bow for five days of peace, laughter, and unplugged quality time. Nate, Mason, and I were the first ones to arrive at the cabin, and we immediately went on a tour—and let me tell you, it was amazing! The cabin itself was beautiful, but the outdoor space stole the show. There was a perfect area for relaxing, playing, and soaking in the mountain air. I could instantly imagine all the memories we’d be making over the next few days.

That first evening, as everyone else arrived, we did exactly what we needed—nothing fancy, just time together. We explored the property, played basketball on the driveway, pulled out the card games, and let the kids (and the adults) settle into that peaceful post-Christmas rhythm. The laughter came easy, and the night set the tone for a trip that would be full of joy and connection.

There’s something grounding about being in a place where so many memories live—where the trees have heard your stories, the trails know your footsteps, and the rivers have witnessed your family's growth. Broken Bow is that place for us. And now, watching Mason run through the same woods we did, I can’t help but hope that one day, he brings his own family back here too.

Because more than the hikes or the scenery or even the s’mores—it’s about being together. It’s about carrying the tradition forward, honoring where we’ve been, and cherishing where we are. Broken Bow will forever be part of our story—and I pray it always feels like home to Mason the way it has for us.

Here’s to the return of one of our most treasured family traditions. Post Christmas 2023 in the mountains? One we’ll never forget.