This was such a special day! We met so many wonderful families. The weather was beautiful, which always helps. Upon arriving, one little boy said, "Where are the hikesters?" We walked through the forest, then spent a lot of time checking out the marsh. I love listening to kids' ideas about nature, such as wondering what ducks eat. We were amused at the ducks' tails sticking straight up in the air as they "ducked" their heads down...(oh, now I get it!) The kids found snail shells, and used sticks to pick up "seaweed".
Afterward, we all warmed by a fire, and some families even thought to bring hot dogs to roast for their lunch!
Jodi
The weather was absolutely no fun, so this event was cancelled. Two tough moms bundled up their kids, showed up, and decided to go anyway. You go, moms! We'll definitely try for another event at beautiful Loveland Park in the summer!
Jodi
Well, as it was MEA's week, we had a small turnout, but boy was it fun! The weather was perfect, and the kids had a wonderful time. They climbed and climbed the bent trees, and it was easy to see how proud they were of themselves. They loved it when a boat's wake would create noisy waves. They also discovered that they could write with powdery shell pieces on black rocks- very cool! We'll have to come here again next summer!
Our first Happy Trails Family Nature Club outing was so fun! The weather was absolutely perfect, and the fall colors seemed to put on a show just for us. As families were arriving and meeting in the parking lot, the kids clambered over nearby rocks and trees. We then made our way down West River Road, heading downward into the woods.
The kids (and parents) all seemed to become instant friends. We checked out colored leaves, and peered over fences, as we were really high up above the river. We rested and snacked on a low brick wall and hillside, then headed back toward the bonfire site. We had plenty of time to relax at the bonfire (thanks, Mike and Rebecca!), while the children built forts in the forest.
All in all, about 25 people shared each other's company, exchanged cards to stay in touch, and most importantly, kids played together, leisurely, outdoors. We can't wait until the 18th for the next adventure. Thanks to all of you who came out!