Just something about an outdoor fire...

I can't really explain it. But if you have ever hung out by an outdoor fire (campfire, charcoal grill, etc) you'll know what I mean. Cracklin, poppin sound, the smell of the smoke, and of course the heat. All of it is BRILLIANT during the dead of winter.

Which is why when I learned that Oak Openings Metro Park has these pavilions surrounding Mallard Lake where you can have such open flame and you don't even have to bring the wood!

Chris and I recently visited Oak Openings (which is most certainly a favorite of ours to go walkin in the woods. Chris says "walking", I say "hiking") and we enjoyed taking the time to hang out near a warm cozy fire.

Even on a cold, windy day...way fun!