Gotta Hike

Just as I was ready to write a poem titled Coldness How I Despise Thee, the weather went back to summer sunshine and warmth.  I got this sense of urgency to go hiking before winter locks us in our home for several months.

 The traditional Fall Family Photo at a State Park.

 Daring boys.

 A little closer.

We came around a corner and were surprised by this rock tower.

So that was all Saturday at Shades State Park.  Actually called The Shades of Death, but we leave out the death part.

After church on Sunday I took Peter and Reuben to Holliday Park in The City where we hiked, visited the nature center, and played on their bigger-than-I've-ever-seen playground.  No pictures of that excursion.  But you can imagine.

Now here is today.  McCormick's Creek State Park.  Trail three is .8 miles.  Point eight miles.  I think it took us about two and a half hours.  Maybe three.  We went with some friends and the kids had so much fun.

 Everyone had to hold the frog.

I am going to save this photo for their wedding slide show.

Can you see that Reuben is wet up to his armpits?

They had to check out all the water holes and snail shells and random water spigots.

They would all get on a big rock in the creek, each with a long stick, and pretend to row it as a boat.

They were so cute and creative.

 Peter declared that his goal was to
go the most challenging route.
"And would you please take my picture as I go?"

Then we picnicked and climbed on a playground where a bee went up my capri pant leg and stung me two times.  Lame.

Do I look fulfilled?

It was a lovely weekend.
Three days, three parks,
and sunshine on my shoulders.

Okay, snow, come.

But be quick about it.

Please.