{Broken Bow // Day 4}

 River Wandering, Goodbyes, and Night Fishing

By day four of our Broken Bow trip, we had fully settled into that sweet mountain rhythm—the kind where time slows down, your soul exhales, and the only thing on the agenda is to enjoy the moment. It was another day spent at Beaver’s Bend State Park, a place that’s more than just a park to us—it’s a piece of our family’s story, full of comfort, history, and the kind of beauty you never get tired of.

That afternoon, we loaded up and headed back into the park to revisit some familiar spots. There’s something comforting about driving through those winding roads, passing the same trees, bends, and views that have greeted us for years. Even though we’ve seen them many times, it never gets old. We paused at places that have long been favorites—spots where we’ve taken photos, skipped rocks, or just sat still and let the scenery soak in.

We spent the afternoon hiking a bit more and playing along the riverbank. Nate and I just took it all in—watching Mason laugh and explore the same rivers and trails we wandered in our early years together. It felt so good just to be out in nature, away from screens and noise, completely surrounded by the peacefulness that only places like Broken Bow can offer.

There’s a kind of healing in days like this. No big events, no rush—just trees swaying in the wind, water moving gently over rocks, and conversations that come easily when you’re walking side-by-side with people you love.

Later that afternoon, the tone of the day shifted just a bit as we headed back to the cabin to say goodbye to one family from the Hall crew. They had to pack up early and return home for a family wedding. It’s always a little sad when part of the group leaves, especially on a trip like this where togetherness is such a big part of the magic. 

After they left and the cabin grew a little quieter, I took a moment for myself out on the back porch—just me, my Bible, and the soft sounds of nature. I spent time doing my Bible study, and it was exactly what my heart needed. There’s something so special about reading the Word while surrounded by God’s creation. The gentle breeze, the birdsong, and the stillness of the woods made that time feel even more sacred. It reminded me that even in the middle of a fun-filled trip, there’s always room to pause and reconnect with the One who created it all.

As evening set in, Nate and I decided to sneak away for a little night fishing. There’s something incredibly peaceful about being by the water in the dark, with only the sounds of nature and the occasional splash to keep you company. It wasn’t about catching the biggest fish—it was about winding down the day in a way that felt true to us. Just the two of us, under the stars, casting lines into the quiet and reflecting on how grateful we are for these moments.

Day four wasn’t packed with adventure or excitement—and that’s exactly what made it perfect. It was a day to just be—to enjoy the simplicity of nature, the company of family, the quiet presence of God, and the small moments that too often get lost in our everyday routines.

Trips like this remind me that some of the best memories aren’t made at big events or in loud celebrations. They’re made beside a river, in the quiet of the woods, around a table at a cozy cabin—or standing with your person under a starry sky, sharing a little silence and a whole lot of gratitude.