Have you heard about First Day Hikes? The tradition started 20 years ago in Massachusetts, but three years ago, state parks across the country began offering programs and guided hikes to encourage people to get outside and hike on New Year's Day. I knew about it last year, but January 1, 2013 was a cold, rainy day, so hiking did not appeal to any of us. Fortunately, New Year's Day 2014 was the perfect day to get outside for a hike!
We chose to go to Stephen F. Austin State Park, which is less than an hour from our house. We've been several times and just love the park. It isn't huge, but it is teeming with birds and is never very crowded.
We were lucky to have Katy join us for the day. Jaime was off counting birds on the prairie, but Katy was up for a First Day Hike.
The boys led us along the Barred Owl Trail,
past prairie grasses
and under mistletoe
to the Brazos River.
There are so many vultures at this park, but we also saw cardinals, wrens, and hawks.
After lunch, we opted out of the guided hike, since the boys tend to enjoy exploring at their own (quick) pace. Henry did some land surfing and jumping
and then we were off down the Cottonwood Trail.
Henry had to stop almost immediately for a snack. I had to include this picture because this boy's shoes are constantly falling off his feet!
It just wouldn't be a hike without a walking stick or three!
Our second hike was longer and the boys starting fading (we covered 3 1/2 miles total for the day -- the boys are troupers!), but we found things to keep them entertained. Katy taught us how to make grass whistles,
we found huge sycamore leaves,
the boys climbed down the bank to the river,
and we found more sticks!
My little family.
I can't imagine a better way to start 2014!
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