Saturday, March 8, 2008

Trip downtown


We had a very nice trip to downtown Miami today. We took the metrorail to save the trouble of parking and because the kids absolutely love it. We spent some time at the Miami Historical museum, where they had a really nice display exhibiting the history of south Florida, from the time of the Native Americans, to present day. It was really fascinating. I learned a lot and the kids really seemed to enjoy it, especially the section on pirating that was rampant in the Keys in the 1800s. We made our way over to Bayside, a nice outdoor mall right on Biscayne Bay, where we shared some snacks overlooking the water. We stopped for a family picture as we walked from Bayside to Bayfront park, which I've loaded atop this post. At the park, they've got a very nice playground that the kids played at while Tracy and I enjoyed sitting down together talking and enjoying some kid free moments. The kids all had a great time. Michael's favorite part of the day was playing at the playground. Chase loved the museum best. And Cameron enjoyed eating fresh fish and chips overlooking the bay. Tracy and I enjoyed one of our best families outings yet. It's amazing how much more I enjoy taking the kids out in public now that they're a little older and more civilized.

Friday, March 7, 2008

Climbing with dad





I received an invitation from a friend to join him and his daughters at our local climbing gym. I decided to bring my sons and see how they would do. It ended up being an exhausting, but wonderful day. It was one of my favorite times I've ever had as a dad. The highlights of the day were Michael finally reaching the top of a route he'd attempted numerous times, but didn't quite make it. He was so excited and proud of himself. Chase, after completing his own climb, leaned in to me and said, "Dad, this is the best day ever." I didn't do much climbing myself, as I was busy belaying my sons most of the time. But, I did get to do a little bit and thoroughly enjoyed it, as I used to climb a lot my last few years of high school. I hope to return again soon. Enjoy the pics.