Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Colorado Bend State Park

We recently took our kids on quite an amazing nature walk. I have to admit though, I had no idea what we were in for. We looked at the map, which said it was a little over a mile in. Smugly I thought... that's not so bad. Little did I know, it would take us around 4 hours to make the walk both ways. Although, it took me a couple days to recover, it was well worth it!
We started our venture at the top of the trail, where there are restrooms and a picnic table. We brought fried chicken, rolls, veggies, chips, and drinks. After eating our yummy meal, we put everything up and headed towards the trail.
The trail starts out flat and smooth. Maybe a couple of small hills.... but it is so deceiving. Our boys, ages 4 and 2, eagerly walked . They stopped to look at every flower, rock, and bug along the way. We went up and down a couple of hills and then the trail started to get a little rockier... then a little steeper... and before we knew it, we were hiking.
The last part of the trail is the steepest. There are metal poles driven into the rock, with heavy wire looped through it, for you to hold on to. It was much to steep to let the boys walk down, so James carried them down.
You can hear the water as your making your way down but can't see the falls until you're at the bottom and let me tell you..... It IS breathtaking. At that point, there is absolutely no doubt that the trail holds a treasure at the end. It is simply amazing!
This was such a great little nature walk/hike. I'm so happy that we had the chance to experience it, together.
In case you're wondering, Yes... the hike back was the hard part. Mostly up hill and slow moving but keep in mind that I'm nearly 8 months pregnant. The kids walked the trail both ways... with the exception of the last part. So, if you're ever in Central Texas, don't miss out on this amazing little walk!

Friday, April 9, 2010

One Of My Favorites





I love the short winters here in Central Texas! More importantly, my kids enjoy the fact that they can spend most of their days playing in the backyard.
I snapped this picture of Mason, yesterday. I love how his head and body are distorted, putting the focus on his big brown eyes! They are so full of expression and life. So yes, this is one of my favorite pictures!