Brad's Visit - Jonathan Dickinson State Park

I've lost track of how many times we've visited Jonathan Dickinson State Park, but I do remember that we went last spring for the sole purpose of doing some equestrian activities - see here - and we were unable to do so. So, we tried again, this time with success!

The plan was to start by taking the "wagon ride" as an entire family, and then let the girls ride a pony. Robyn wasn't interested in that, but Brooke certainly was.

Robyn was great at spotting the blazes on the trail. I enjoyed recognizing them from hiking the same trail in the past.

Since it was dry season, there was only one puddle along the way.

Brooke was ready for her turn with the horses!

There's one more activity to do in this area of the park, and that's the guided trail ride, which is something we'll try on our next trip. It was nice to get an idea of how that will work.

We worked up an appetite, yet there was still more to do while Grandpa barbecued hamburgers and hot dogs. First up was to check out the playground.

Next they joined my on my traditional visit to the river. I'll admit it's a bit less nerve-wracking to go by myself, but it was great still to see the beautiful view. Don't you agree that it was a gorgeous day?

After that it was time to blow some bubbles, such a simple thing that brings great joy, even to total strangers. 

Finally, the food was ready, and as usual, it was pretty scrumptious. You'll also note that uneaten hot dog pieces don't need to go to waste; they make a delicious "reject" sandwich.

There was one more thing to do before heading home, and that was heading up to the Hobe Mountain Tower. It's a perfect trail for little legs - short and smooth.

Originally we left a sleeping boy in the car, but he woke up and decided he wanted to see the view as well. Was this the first hike he did all on his own, without being carried at all? We think so.

So, there's your formula for getting little kids to go to sleep - keep them going, going, going, and then put them in the car!