I don't think we're in Long Beach anymore...

We recently made the decision that we needed to make more of an effort to get out on John's days off and spend some fun family time together. We really want our kids to have memories of fun outings. I've recently discovered a blog called Daytripping Mom that has some great ideas for just the kind of outings we're looking for. Since I didn't plan ahead today, we decided to do something close by and spent about 1 1/2 hours at the El Dorado Park & Nature Center. The nature trails are 1/4, 1, or 2 miles of paved & unpaved paths through trees, meadows, streams and ponds. We had a great time. It was so peaceful and felt as though we'd stepped right into the woods in Arkansas. After living in Long Beach for over 28 years, I'm ashamed to say I didn't know we had these great "woodlands" right in our backyard.

We decided we'd go middle of the road and headed out on the 1 mile trail. Kate was a little apprehensive at first since Mommy said we might see animals. She kept asking if there were tigers in there. We assured her that the biggest animal we may encounter would be a bunny.

This one actually stood still enough for me to take a picture. Kate had a hard time picking it out at first since they blend so we'll with the surroundings.

Luke didn't last long. He cuddled right up to Daddy and slept through most of the walk. I'm sure one day in the not too distant future we'll be reminiscing about the days when we could have such peaceful walks. :)

Here's one sight you don't see out in nature. Nice lunch break spot, huh? ;)

While not many animals came out, there were some really cute sights like the mommy duck with all of her ducklings.

Some times you just need a break.

Kate finally got tired and needed a piggy back ride. She perked up when we got to the little museum where she saw a snake, spiders, and skeletons. Pretty cool.

We've got a list going of fun things to do and are going to try to pick something new each week. Today was a good start. As we were walking back to the car, Kate said, "That was a nice walk, Mommy. Thank you for taking me on a nice walk." Awww...melts your heart, doesn't it?