Monday, April 07, 2008
This past weekend, it warmed up in our state, so we found some outdoor activities to keep us busy. We visited Starved Rock State Park in Utica, IL for some hiking. Jace had been here before, but it was Liz and Lauren's first time. 
I (Liz )was surprised at how much (for lack of a better word) tax dollars had been put on the trails. At times it was like we were strolling down a wide boardwalk through the trees. The scenic overlooks all have deck platforms, railings and benches. There are a gazillion stairs, most with extensive railings. It was light years beyond the trails in the state parks that I remember growing up in Indiana. I think I even remember once my dad had to build a makeshift bridge so our family could get across a stream on the "tree trail." Family, help me out, am I remembering correctly??
Anyway, we had a fun time. Lauren enjoyed being backpacked by her daddy. We got many of the usual comment from adults we passed: "I wish someone would carry me around in one of those."
3 Comments
Lauren, you look a lot like your daddy in these pictures! We're glad you're getting some warmer weather. Lots of fresh air and sunshine makes for good naps:)
You are correct,Liz! Heavy rains had washed though the trail and your dad engineered a bridge with input and supply gathering from the rest of us! I'm sure the park was grateful!!
Oh, you should have told us you were coming down, we might have joined you! We weren't doing anything that day, and it WAS beautiful out. A far cry from the weather we've been having down here lately.