Postcards from Camp Granola: Natural Inspiration

This week I highlighted some of our favorite urban Atlanta adventures that Fred and George love as well as our thoughts on experiential education. While they do get a jolt from attractions like The World of Coca-Cola, the less frenetic outdoor fun we usually tend toward is really where they build their character and skills. Which leads me to this post in which I get to share a little Camp Granola behind-the-scenes history with you.

Back in May 2010 we adopted Dobby. Of course, coming up with a name was no easy task in an opinionated household. It came down to letting each boy pick a name and we’d combine them in to the most appealing first-middle name combination. Yes, the dog has a middle name. And that’s where this story comes in.

George picked “Riverbank” which was later shortened to River for simplicity’s sake. In his explanation for his choice, he passionately described how the dog’s mottled white, brown, and black fur resembled the bank of a river as the dappled sunlight danced on it through the trees. I’ll go ahead and admit that granola mom here still gets quite misty-eyed just remembering George’s sweet 7-year-old face trying to articulate the scene that inspired his name choice.

Epic granola moment, no? So I give you this to ponder…

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. – John Muir

Indeed, George did not seek a name for this cherished pup but the lasting effects of exploring nature have certainly impacted his outlook of the world.

A natural metaphor for a beloved beagle.