1. I don't like to get up early on Saturdays.
2. I don't like to take all three kids to a crowded event by myself.
3. I don't like driving a good distance away from home to see "nature."
But our favorite regional park was hosting a festival and we didn't want to miss any fun, especially because Nick had to work, and Saturdays without Papa tend to draaaaag.
So I fed and dressed the kids, brewed strong coffee, loaded up the car and we headed into the rolling hills and canyons of eastern San Diego.
It's beautiful out there with the giant boulders and desert-like landscape--so different from our own seaside habitat.
When we arrived at the festival, we were early enough to have beaten the thick afternoon crowds and the heat, too.
It was great.
We got to meet a live raccoon and pet a small rosy boa, both of whom came from the park.
The Girl Scouts were painting faces -- for free. And they were pretty good artists.
Wildlife-inspired craft booths were everywhere.
The Audubon Society had tools for emulating different types of beaks.
And the best part ... the reason we braved this feat in the first place ...
Pony rides!
The kiddos were terrific day-trip companions, which showed me that an early morning drive to a crowded county park with three tots under 6 isn't always a recipe for disaster.
In fact, it was pleasant.
But, take a look at the girl in this last photo. Is it just me or does she seem eerily comfortable standing next to that horse?
I do believe we have a budding equestrian in our family. Anyone know of some good riding stables in the D.C. area?
I don't know about the stables in the DC area, but Katherine's been taking riding lessons in OK for a few months now and she loves it. I signed her up as a way to keep her busy after we left Japan, but after watching her ride I really think it's a great activity for kids. Honestly, I'm so glad she's riding! She's learning how to react under pressure, how to communicate what she wants effectively (and where she wants the horse to go!), how to trust her instincts, how to project confidence, and (hardest of all, it seems) how to be in control. It's a fun, physical activity and it's been great for her self-esteem! Lili would love it! After all, based on that picture, it looks like she's a natural!
ReplyDeleteWhat fun! L does look absolutely comfortable with Cupcake. I love that she has on jeans, too! I'm not convinced from his expression that C liked his ride so much. Was this the wild animal park?
ReplyDeleteOh, no, Nana. This was at a *real* park (Mission Trails)--not a theme park.
ReplyDeleteE--She's so inspired now to learn about horses, and I think the east coast seems like riding country. Glad to hear you feel it's an age-appropriate activity to K. It's nice to have some trailblazing. :)