When I was around 11 or 12 my dad decided that instead of birthday gifts he would take us on little adventures. His reasoning was that in the years to come we would forget whatever had been gifted to us but the memories of a special birthday adventure would long be remembered. As dad’s are quite wise, he was right.

The tradition continues with Walker. We also agreed (or maybe I convinced him) that birthday adventures are best. This year we had to wait until this past weekend to take our adventure-mostly because we thought we might take an out of town trip. We decided against that since we are both, separately, traveling to Texas this week. Then the huge task of what to do was in front of us and we failed-at first.

Idea after idea was suggested and almost as quickly shot down. I was nearly at my wits end and really not feeling like doing much of anything thinking I would only be disappointed when Walker mentioned discovery park. It was 2 bus rides away, neither of us had been, and there were both beaches and hiking to be had. Sounded like an adventure to me. We quickly packed up picnic essentials, our cameras, rain gear (you know just in case), and headed out.

Once we hit the trail we both knew we had made the right decision. There was a very peaceful hike through the woods before we reached the beach about a mile in. Despite my initial reservations we climbed some rocks and had ourselves a little picnic. It was perfectly lovely (perhaps a little uncomfortable on the bum but that’s my only complaint).

We continued on down the beach exploring things that were new to us with excitement and enjoying the beautiful views. We ended at the lighthouse and decided we better head back before it got dark. It was the perfect birthday adventure and I’m already planning my next trip out.