ANA HITO, RIVER + NAVY — by Ana Hito
Some days, the chaos feels overwhelming — for my kids River (1.5 yrs) and Navy (5 weeks), and me. Two girls, mountains of laundry, and a mind that’s often running on fumes. But also because I’ve realized something pretty simple: getting outside, for the girls and for me, is the real magic right now.
We live most of the year out on our remote island in Rapa Nui (Easter Island), which is pretty much the definition of wild and wide open. But each summer, we pack up and head to the Hudson Valley for a few months — a change of scenery, a chance for perspective.
My first daughter, River, was born a free birth, quietly, at home on our ranch — just me and my husband. It was perfect. But the whole citizenship thing has been a mess, and with this second baby, we decided to have her here in the States.
Of course, things didn’t go as planned. My husband wasn’t allowed into the country for reasons the state department can’t explain, so I’ve been flying solo for months — navigating postpartum, toddler tantrums, sleepless nights, and endless chaos. Some nights I feel like I’m living a panic attack, and other days I remind myself that it’s okay, that this too shall pass, that they’re only going to be this little once.
Honestly, it’s been draining — physically, emotionally, mentally. But it’s also been beautiful. Watching River meet her sister with such love and grace, seeing those tiny moments of real connection — that’s what keeps me going.
When everything feels like it’s about to fall apart — or when I feel like I’m falling apart. I load us into the car and head outside. Because outside is where I find my footing. It’s where I remember that the chaos isn’t forever and that nature is the best medicine I’ve got right now. Even just a quick walk, a few minutes in the trees, the sky, the grass — it resets everything.
Getting outside isn’t just the antidote for the kids. It’s good for me. It reminds me that I can handle this, that I’m stronger than I think, and that someday, I’ll get to rest again. I keep telling myself that each day gets a little easier — each day, they’re a little older, and we’ll find our normal again.
We’re getting closer to heading back to Rapa Nui soon — back to the island, back to the sea, back to the place where I feel most myself. But until then, I’m holding onto these raw, real days. They’re hard, yes. But they’re also full of beauty.
Thanks to Misha and Puff for adding a little more joy, beauty and comfort into our days — especially during the “getting dressed” hour, which somehow has become something we all look forward to.
To all the parents out there feeling overwhelmed — you’re not alone. Sometimes, all it takes is stepping outside to remember that this chaos isn’t forever — and the medicine for chaos is trees, and grass, and big open vistas, and fresh air!
Ana Hito is a cook, mom, rancher and editor living between Rapa Nui and Hudson Valley with her family.