hiking

Sam had his first hike this weekend. Yesterday was a beautiful day so we decided to head to nearby Parson's Mountain for a short hike before naps. Since we had a baby shower for some friends last night, we didn't want to go too far. Well, we had a surprise waiting for us when we got there.

It was closed for the season! Needless to say, we were very shocked. When I think of a state park closing for the season, it's usually due to inclement weather like in the Smokies. We have such mild winters here in South Carolina that it didn't even cross our minds to check and see if it was open. Who knew? Not us, but we will check first in the future.

Since we were already out and about early, we stopped at a local Mennonite bakery for a "sweet treat" as Jake called it and then headed to Calhoun Falls State Park. We had heard that there is a little beach area complete with sand for swimming in the lake when it's warm there, and we wanted to check it out. It was only about fifteen minutes from Parson's Mountain so it seemed like a good idea. We hoped it was open and that we could find a hiking trail.

It was open, the beach looked like a great idea for the summer, and we found a trail that looped around part of the lake. Success! We even enjoyed our picnic lunch on a blanket by the lake! It was a perfect day, even if it wasn't exactly what we planned. We just wanted to enjoy the sunshine out in God's creation and be together. We did all that!

Closed for the season:(

Like father like son. Too cool in their sunglasses and UL hats!

Sam and Mommy by the lake. Although he slept for the entire hike, he was awake and happy stretched out on the blanket for our picnic lunch.

Jake loves his new sunglasses. I found them at Children's Place, which opened this week at our little mall. Yippee!