Everyone should have a happy place, somewhere that instantly makes your heart feel lighter. Mine is Bainbridge Island (although Maui might be a close second). Many of my idyllic childhood moments took place on the shores of Pleasant Beach or traipsing across the island.
Yesterday I woke up, excited about the predicted beautiful weather ahead. After making a few suggestions about possible adventures for the day, we quickly settled upon a trip to Bainbridge Island. The kids are often pretty good about mobilizing when they sense the need to act quickly and we were out the door in less than 40 minutes from the time I stepped out of bed. Thanks to my childhood visits, we skipped the downtown Winslow tourist scene and instead made for the less crowded parts of island.
Ferry rides are so exciting!
The kids did their part by taking car naps throughout the day. We picnicked at Battlepoint Park, where I fondly remember chasing rabbits as a kid. The awesome playground was a big hit.
Of course we made time for a little nature exploration. We found a large bush with a major tent caterpillar investigation.
From there we headed to Fort Ward. The kids loved scampering along the rocky beach. Robin was excited to find so many "balls" and delighted in throwing the rocks. We found plenty of crabs and moonsnails as we turned over rocks.
We then hiked the loop trail and checked out the forts. The kids did great and Robin excitedly cheered us on as we walked. Eileen tired after a while and needed carrying. This is resulted in Robin playing peekaboo with her over my shoulder.
I've been teaching a nature science unit to Linus' kindergarten class. I used the opportunity to do some plant identification. It took some convincing before I convinced Linus what we saw was a nurse log.
We ended our adventure by meeting up with my aunt, Eileen, for some frozen yogurt. The kids loved playing in the fountains. Eventually, little Eileen was just relaxing on a statue and becoming drenched. We didn't have changes of clothes for them, but sometimes you have to just let go and enjoy the moment.
The ferry gods smiled upon us and we got to load a boat earlier than expected. The kids were cooperative throughout the trip for the most part. I went to bed completely blissed out from a wonderful day.
Mother's Day meant sleeping in, morning snuggles, flowers, a latte, and french pastry in bed, more lounging in bed, a trip to the farmer's market, and an afternoon of pampering at a spa. There was a moment this morning as Linus' serenaded me in bed that I began to tear up because I could see just how much my kids love me. Sometimes a mama needs that. It's been an amazing, rejuvenating weekend. I hope I can hold onto the feeling as we continue with our insanely busy month and head towards summer. But at the moment, life is good.
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