Summer in the desert

Our agenda when we're in the desert is always the same: swimming, zoo, and toffee. This time, we got to go with dear friends, and though it was scorching hot, we had lots of fun bonding. Thankful we got to squeeze in a little retreat after waiting 8 months to visit the zoo again. The kids were champs during the 2 hour hike in 110F weather, but alas, we couldn’t find the kookaburra bird this time around.

A beachside hike

Kid-friendly hikes are my favorite family activity lately. We'll go on hikes sporadically on family days and whenever we're on vacation, such as this most recent getaway to San Diego, I'll request a morning hike. Alex found a lovely, hilly trail overlooking the beach. Family trips are pretty sanctifying per usual, but as soon as we stepped foot on the trail, the beautiful sea and salty air were a balm for us all. The kids had a blast trying out new binoculars, searching for perfect rocks, and clambering up and down the trail. It's always refreshing to enjoy creation wherever we are. Thankful for the time we spent away from home between Christmas and New Year's.

A living desert

Palm Springs now has my heart. Before, I felt the desert was too hot and not kid friendly enough, but since our visit to the zoo last week, I'm a changed woman. I daresay it is my favorite out of the zoos we've explored. We all had such a blast and cannot wait to return. I love watching the kids make awe-filled connections with what they're learning in school. The family time was sweet too.