A Mini Hiking Trip with the Girls

This school year I started implementing a reward system for Emery when it comes to her grades. The first six weeks she made the A-Honor Roll so she chose the option that involved a sleepover with two friends followed by breakfast at a place of her choosing. There’s never really any pressure because, for the most part, I let her know that I just want her to try her best. That’s what’s important to me. However, our little system has given her a bit of an incentive to ask for help when she’s struggling with a certain subject or problem. Because she really wants to earn that prize at the end. So, at the beginning of each six weeks, she and I come up with two new reward options which give her a goal to work towards. At the end of the six weeks, when I get her report card, there are two rewards she can pick from to “cash-in” based on those grades.

For the second six weeks, she made the A-B Honor Roll. She came really close to all A’s with one 89. So, her choices were to either go see a movie or go hiking with two friends. And well, my daughter loves the outdoors. So, we headed out to a local state park. Thankfully, we had some pretty amazing weather. The girls had a blast hiking some familiar trails and crossing the river barefoot. Multiple times. They spent the afternoon talking about the fish, and what it must have been like for people years ago that lived in those areas. They laughed and talked about school. What subjects they liked, and what they didn't. As they sat on a rock Emery said, "You know, we all have friends at our schools. But I hope we stay each other's best friends forever." There were a few instances when they all walked ahead and asked Emery how she was feeling about her dad. And of course, she looked back in hesitation but I nodded letting her know it was okay to tell them. They spoke about it briefly before heading over to more rocks. Hugs all around. And just seeing that made me happy. It's nice to know that these girls all care about each other. That Emery has two friends that listen to her when she's sad or happy. That they get to come along on our adventures and share stories. But most importantly, I'm grateful that Emery has all of this. That she has an abundance of family and friends who love her. 

As we left for the day I thought that this should happen more often for her. I want her to continue to enjoy exploring the outdoors. I want to give her and her friends the opportunity to go outside, share secrets, and spend time with one another. As often as possible. So, it looks like this may turn into a tradition. Grades or not, I want to give her as many more of these moments as I can. 

Wordless Wednesday

Trail Runs - Proctor Lake

About two Saturdays ago my brother came down for a visit. The night before I was informed that we’d be getting up early in order to hit some trails in the tiny town I grew up in nearby. By a lake. And as much as I wish I could be one of those women that loves to spend her time by a huge hole in the ground that smells like stinky fish I’m just not. Still, I was promised that it would be a challenge and that there would be some decent views. I was also told that my sister-in-law would be joining us. She didn’t-- that’s right Kim, I’m looking at you. So, with my kid jumping up and down at the idea of going on a trail run with her tio I agreed. The sacrifices we make, am I right? We ended up inviting my other sister-in-law, and made a plan to get up around 6:30 the next day. As we all got up with the sun we layered up on bug spray and sunscreen. My brother arrived shortly after, and we made the 15 minute drive over.

Mind you, I hadn’t had any coffee at this point. I was a little doubtful about these “views” I was promised, and a little skeptical about the trail in general. I had lived in this town my whole life, and I’d pretty much seen it all. I could not have possibly missed something this great, right? Well, as we turned down the highway by the lake I realized we were passing by the more “popular” locations. And when we finally parked it was over by a closed off section called High Point Park which has been closed off to vehicles for years. Now, a little history for you: Our tiny little town had a bunch of idiots that liked to cause trouble and be violent towards others. High Point was the location that they all gathered at in order to participate in such mischief as drug deals, fights, and/or stabbings. This is why we can’t have nice things. So, in order to put a stop to it, the gates came down permanently. Now, several years later, as we got out of the vehicle we could still see the paved loop but everything else was overgrown. And that’s about the time that I looked over at my brother and asked “We’re supposed to go running...in THAT?”

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the answer was yes. I’m pretty sure my eyes bugged out a bit. You see, I hate snakes. I mean, I really really hate snakes. And do you know what comes out mid-morning in tall overgrown grass? That’s right, SNAKES. I was vocal about my concerns, but my brother told me to quit being a baby. This sentiment was echoed by my eight year old, and so I finally agreed to suck it up. Since they were the fearless ones they took the lead, and my sister-in-law and I brought up the end. The paved section ended at about .25 of a mile and then it was all grass, and sand. Spider webs, and thorns. And yes, even a snake. Though it was a baby, but you better believe I jumped. I kept looking down, and anytime the grass got taller than me I would sprint; eyes closed. Because I just hate the feeling I get when I'm not being able to see what’s around me, or hiding in the grass right next to me. However, as we got to the one mile point I started to relax a bit. I looked up, and around. My sister-in-law and I walked for a few minutes, and every once in awhile the little and my brother would have us stop to look out at the view.

And you know what? He was right. We found ourselves in a section that’s hardly ever touched by anyone else other than the occasional runner, or hiker. It was quite, and peaceful. It didn’t smell like stinky fish, and there were some section that caused me to really push myself to make it through. And we didn’t even finish the whole thing! At mile two and a half we decided to turn around in order to make it back home in time for breakfast. But most importantly coffee. We talked as we ran/walked our way back. Cracking jokes, and talking about certain movements going on in the world today. We stopped along the way to look at bones, bugs and interesting looking rocks to take back to tia. We actually had a lot of fun, learned a few things, and it was like discovering this tiny hidden treasure right in our own backyard. Now, will I ever attempt this run on my own? Probably not. But if you're ever in the area...

Caddo Lake State Park

On May 18th Emery, and I headed up to Mount Pleasant for a girl’s weekend. The following day we would all head out for a day of hiking at Caddo Lake State Park in order to celebrate my nephew turning one soon. Yes, while most people celebrate with cake and a party we decided to get out in 90-degree weather for a hike instead. Originally, my brother had wanted to summit Guadalupe Peak since our last trip didn’t allow for it. But seeing as how he wasn’t here we had to improvise. So, the following morning we all got ready to make the hour and a half drive to Caddo Lake. 

Now, in order to not make this one long ass post let me just give you the rundown. This park is open daily, and the cost to get in is $4 per person. Kids 12 years and under are free. Likewise, if you have a military pass-- which we did thanks to my brother. Now, if you’re an avid hiker that likes to have various trails available to you this park doesn’t really offer that. Caddo Lake is mainly for camping, fishing, paddling, and offers cabin rentals. They're available for small groups as well as for larger events such as reunions. I believe, based on the maps, that Caddo has a bit less than 3 miles of hiking trails available. However, I felt like this was perfect for a day trip. It allowed us to explore the majority of the trails, and still have enough time to rent a canoe in order to explore the Saw Mill Pond which I highly recommend. The canoe rental was, I believe $10/hour, and seated three to each canoe. The life vests were available there at no extra charge too. We took turns paddling out, and honestly that isn’t a bad price. We were all able to take a turn around the pond. Also, fair warning, this park does have alligators. My sister-in-law had previously told us about them, but also assured us that we wouldn’t encounter one. So, we didn’t see any on our visit, which Emery was totally disappointed about. I, on the other hand, was totally okay with it. They do have designated swimming areas for us humans, which we didn’t see on our side, but always make sure to ask at the office or check the website for warnings.

On the day that we went it was hot out. And humid as hell. However, the trees are so tall that they blocked a lot of the sun while we were hiking. It felt about 5 degrees cooler than what it was which turned out to be really nice. There were certain areas where a breeze would come through and help cool us down which was much appreciated by all of us. Just don’t count on having that happen a lot. And since the trails are pretty short I didn’t see any water stations along any of the routes so make sure that you bring your own water. Bring your own snacks if your peck-ish too. Also, there are three restroom areas but definitely go potty before you head out as the location of these bathrooms are on complete opposite ends of the park. Other than that, it’s pretty easy to navigate your way around. And the views were pretty great as well. I definitely recommend Caddo Lake for those of you with families that just want to get out for a day trip, or overnight camping. Or if you just want to spend some time outdoors with some friends for the day. This place is also pretty perfect for those that are new to hiking too. Like me! The trails offer just enough challenge to make you feel like you're really getting in a work out. 

Overall, I really enjoyed our visit. Emery had a blast running on the trails, and she was able to help paddle the canoe which she enjoyed. There weren’t a lot of people out when we were there, but in a more secluded camping area we were able to see a lot of tents set up so we know there were quite a few others out there. It was very peaceful, and quiet for the most part too. Now, the pond does lead out to the actual lake, and according to the park website it has over 50 miles of paddling trails. However, I can’t tell you much about that because we didn’t attempt it. There were too many other boats on the water in that area, and with it having a steadier current we weren’t sure how we’d manage with the kids. We all had a great time though! By the end of the day we were ready to head back home for some dinner. Our plans of late night movies, and junk food quickly turned into showers followed by bedtime. The kiddos were both tuckered out, and so were the adults which made it pretty easy to just call it a day. Now, we can’t wait for my brother to come home in order to go out there again. Next time around  if we have more time, and more people we just might venture out a bit further out.

The Calm Before Thanksgiving

I had told my daughter, weeks before this past Thanksgiving, that I would take time off in order to take her hiking again during her holiday break. As luck would have it I was able to get the Monday before Thanksgiving off which gave me a nice three day weekend. I had planned to take her out for two days so we could explore the closest state park a bit more than we had during previous visits. Only, that Friday is when everything happened, and our weekend was thrown into a bit of chaos. 

However we were able to salvage some of the plans. We were able to invite two of my daughters friends along for a day trip. That Monday, my friend dropped off her daughters early in the morning, and we headed off to explore. We didn't focus on what was going on in our life at the time. Instead they all ran around, and climbed through trees. They played in the water, and were able to see dinosaur footprints. As we hiked the trails they talked about the flowers, the fish, and the animals. They giggled over chips, brownies, and water. I heard them talking about school, and how much fun they were having on break. After a few hours we made it up to the "peak", and sat at the edge over looking the whole park. They talked about how little everything seemed, and how big the trees were. They talked about how cool it would have been to see dinosaurs in real life. When we finally headed back down to our car it was well after 2 pm, and all they could talk about was food. We had a late lunch at Burger King per their requests. Read demands. And once our bellies were full we started the drive back home. They made it about thirty minutes before they all fell asleep in the back seat. Content. 

And do you know what was so amazing? That even though my daughter, and I were going through something that was unpleasant we were able to have a good time. My daughter laughed, and smiled. She enjoyed skipping up a hill, hand-in-hand, with her two best friends. They were all so happy just being little kids. Running around outdoors. There was still so much more for them to explore they explained. It was a wonderful day for all three of them. They still talk about it, months later, and ask me if I'll take them again soon. Overall, it was a wonderful day. One that I look back on, and see the silver lining of what we went through. I can still hear the giggles, and the splashes. And I remember the big hug that I received from my little as she proclaimed "Mom, you're the best! Thank you for letting the girls come spend the day with us!" It made me feel happy. It made me feel like no matter what happened next everything was going to be okay. There was a moment on that drive home when I looked at all three of them sleeping,  leaning on each other, and I knew that my daughter and I were going to be okay. That we would be able to get through this because we had so many good people in our lives. And that day was exactly what I needed to feel some peace. To feel some calm that I wasn't quite sure I needed until that very moment. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

On December 29th we were invited to go hiking at Dinosaur Valley with my sister-in-law, and some of her side of the family. I'll be honest when I say that we hardly ever venture out. We "hike" around local little places such as the lake. We go running down back roads. But we've been a one income family for awhile now too so even if I wanted to go explore some new places I'm always concerned about gas, and food. This time, I chose not to worry about it. We would be spending time with family, and the park didn't charge entry fees for children under a certain age. Right on. So after having breakfast with a friend Emery and I made our way out to Glen Rose. 

It's about a forty-five minute drive from our house. I remember visiting this place when I was in Junior High for a field trip. But that was a long time ago, and the only thing that felt familiar about the place when we were exploring were the stairs. Everything else about it felt new, and we only managed to explore one trail. The park had maps of several other routes posted at each entrance so I'm hoping to go back soon, and explore a few other trails. Along different routes there are plaques that give you some information about the animals that live there along with information about the different plants/trees. Campsites are also available, and they even have a playground for the little ones which I thought was really cool. There's a river which was a bit too cold for me, but didn't seem to phase others that ran right through the route we took. What seemed to be the main attraction for younger kids were the dinosaur tracks/prints that you can look at, or stand in which Emery found to be really cool. It's also a pet friendly park so we took Maven along with us. Though it wasn't a bad move on our part there were instances when I walked us away from other hikers, and their kids or pets. Maven isn't always on her best behavior when it comes to other dogs, and sometimes people don't like strange dogs around their kids. Much less a pitbull. It was easy to get us far enough away from others, and she still managed to get in a good walk. I think Maven enjoyed the park as much as Emery did. Both of the girls fell asleep on the ride home. 

Dinosaur Valley definitely had some great views, and I really enjoyed the walk. It wasn't too difficult, but there were sections that we had to climb over rocks or steep hills. Emery was in her element the entire time, and she really enjoyed getting to jump into the water. Brave, brave girl. My guess is that late spring/early summer will be an even better time to go out if you're wanting to do some swimming while visiting. Overall, I'd say that this park was a great way to do some hiking, and get us outdoors. It's also a great way for kids to learn some more about the animals that have been here before us as well as the current ones that call this park their home. Emery has been begging to go back out there so the next time we have some good, warm, weather I plan on doing just that. 

Summer I & II

I stated before that I'm currently taking summer classes. I knew going in that they would be intense, but I did not realize they would be this intense. There are no breaks, and I have homework every night of the week. Summer II started the day after I took my final for Summer I and it has just been a nonstop roller coaster ride. That is why I have been absent for so long, so here is a quick update:

On Father's Day weekend the little and I traveled with my brother and sister-in-law (officially; post for another time) to Carlsbad, NM and Guadalupe National Park. I have pictures and as soon as I am able to I will post those. It was so so so lovely. We had a lot of mishaps on the way (another post for a later time), but it was so worth it to be able to see such amazing things. And since we barely had any cell service, none at the national park, our phones were reduced to camera's. IN. THE. BEST. WAY. POSSIBLE! We were able to check in with every one at the beginning and end of each day which was all we really needed. Even that required us to walk a ways. I can't even begin to describe how exhilarating it was to be out there. We didn't get to hike up Guadalupe due to our delays, but we did get to hike one of the trails. There is something to be said for stillness; quiet. We were all together, without phones, and once we made it to the end of our trail we all just sat and took it in. For about 2 minutes before Em decided she needed to do more. Still, it was great. I hope to write about it in more detail as well as show you guys some photos soon. Until then, here's one of the little at Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico.

We gave my husband a weekend to himself to have a boys weekend, and then we returned on Father's Day. The following weekend he was off to California and then Laughlin, NV for his best friends wedding. He came back intact, but when a pretty swollen leg from a nice jet ski trick gone wrong. Also, let me just say that LAX is a nightmare, and never again (I hope) will any of us ever have to fly into that airport. My husband arrived two hours before his flight, and the lack of assistance, as well as major wait times caused him to miss his flight. He was put on standby, and miraculously was able to be home by 4 pm. Though because it was such short notice, I wasn't able to pick him up until 6 pm. Anyways, he made it home safely, and I'm grateful for that. 

Since then, we haven't done much. A few flea market visits here and there. We had a nice get together on the fourth of July with my husband's side of the family. The parade was pretty awesome, and they had a few games, and bounce houses that Em was able to ride. We ate dippin' dots for breakfast, and she was able to play for a few hours with a lot of other kids. Some that she'll be seeing at school this fall. The highlight of her day was seeing her former preschool teacher at the fair. I've never seen her run so fast to give hugs before. We've gone to see movies, and we've had dinner with friends. Our little tried out a gymnastics camp and has decided she'd like to continue so those classes will start at the beginning of August. Also, after our camping trip Em's been asking to go "out to the mountains" again, though this time I think we'll stick closer to home. There are some great places nearby that I want to check out and it would also be great if we could take the four-legged babies as well. They are easier climbs with some great views so I feel like we might be in for a day-trip soon. My husband insists we go camping so I'm sure it will be followed by an overnight trip soon after anyway.

So that's been our summer so far. Pretty simple and boring, I know. I didn't realize that summer classes left you with zero time to do anything else. I doubt I'll be doing this again for awhile. My mother has suggested we take a trip up to the LEGOLAND Center so she's working the details on that out. I still want to visit the Omni, which might be something that we do in August once things have slowed down for us. Other than that, not much else is new. Hope everyone is having a wonderful summer break though! Until next time! :) 

A Kayaking Trip

I think it was two weekends ago when my brother, Kim, and Olivia had the bright idea to take an all day/overnight kayaking trip. Why was this such a bright idea? Well because even though the forecast that day was all sunshine and heat we were going to have thunderstorms roll in that evening and they would continue for the rest of the week. My brother knew about this, but apparently forgot to mention anything to the others.

I was volunteered to drop them off with some limited supplies and a tent about an hour north from where we live. With everything that had been going on I definitely welcomed the distraction. So off we went and once we arrived Emery was able to get into the water for a bit. Emery is definitely a water baby. She loves it, and will do anything to get in it. So even though our trip was short she definitely had a blast getting her feet wet and going for a little ride with her uncle.

After we got home, the rain started. I received a text message at 1 am letting me know that they had set up camp under a bridge like a bunch of "homeless people" and they wanted me to pick them up as soon as possible the next morning. I was instructed to bring Tylenol and lots of towels. Emery and I set off at 7 am to go find them and let me just say that they were a sight! Apparently, this kayaking trip tested friendships, and relationships. Hearing the stories they came back with you would have thought they had to survive on a deserted island for weeks!

Still they had a blast and next time around I've been invited to join. Though, I'm sure I'll check the weather forecast before I accept and make sure sleeping bags are being brought along. Anyway, here are some pictures from the beginning of the journey for you guys to enjoy.