Squeezing in an Island Adventure

Friday was my last day of it being just myself and 3 kids.   Friday meant we had no obligations--no swim, no swim lessons, no appointments, nothing.  The weather was predicted to be hot.  This meant I needed to try and avoid places that would be overflowing with people trying to beat the heat.  Unfortunately, the BC wildfires has meant that the air is pretty terrible.

Friday I woke up with resolve.  The air was a little better than the day before.  I needed to take advantage of the freedom the day offered.  I decided to take a day trip to Bainbridge, my special place.  I messaged my aunt, Eileen, to see if she happened to be around.  The kids have been asking to see her again.  As luck would have it, she had the whole day free.

We busted out the door with no plans, no lunch, to get to the Kingston ferry before the weekend crowds.  We made it and met up with my aunt at the coolest new park, Rotary Park.  It is designed to be disability inclusive.  It was simply just a well thought out, well designed park.  You know you're on Bainbridge when the park, which doesn't even have a paved parking lot, has a electric car charging station.

From the park we went to Lynwood Center for lunch and froyo.  We went into the coolest store, Bainbridge Island Outfitters and Depot.  I really hope they make it.  Lynwood Center is a far cry from what it was when I was a kid.  After lunch we went to Eileen's house to do a little berry picking.

Linus got over his fear of Mowgli and became very enamored.

Eileen's house is always full of interesting things to see and do.  She also let us harvest some lettuce and kale from her garden.  We finished off the afternoon with a little time at the beach at Blakely Harbor.  It was quiet (except for us) and made me begin to fantasize about having my own little kayak again or stand up paddle board that I could just take a go out on the water at will.  My kids LOVE the beach.  However, Robin was a little tired and spent most of his time on the picnic blanket I brought.

We had an easy time getting off the island and made the first ferry we attempted.  Dave was already home, with food ready for us.  As we walked in the door, Eileen exclaimed, "We had the best day!"  Thanks Great Grand Eileen for making time for us today.  It was a perfect day.