Part III of the Bucket List

Here is my last installment in the spring and summer bucket list.  After the boys and I took an unexpected trip to the Maritime Aquarium today, we are even more anxious to travel now more than ever.  The boys were able to touch the sting rays, learn about the sea life in our backyard, African habitats, and responsible fishing.  As soon as this snow melts, we will be on the road for our outdoor adventures.  It is no surprise that we love being outside as a family, and this last part will be strictly outside activities.  To be honest, these trips are not cheap.  The trip to CA would normally NOT be happening, except for the fact that my brother in law is getting married (YAY!).

Part III of our Bucket List:  Long Trips

Speculator, New York:  Last year our fife and drum corp was able to participate in a fourth of July parade in Speculator, NY.  We stayed in a beautiful campground that is on a lake, and just take in the refreshing Adirondack air.  This year we have been asked to do it again, and we are camping with some really awesome friends.  The boys are able to do fife and drum with me, learn about the outdoors, play, have a campfire, and just be kids.  What more can I ask for?
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge/Buttermilk Falls State Park:  According to the map, these two attractions are right next to each other, and would be awesome for the boys.  They would be able to see lots of different animals and their waterfalls.  Children love water, and every aspect of it.  My children also love to hike.  This would also be a great trip for any of my NY friends that would like to come as well.  (HINT HINT).  All I need to do is find a campground in the area, and we are all set.  This is the perfect trip for middle of the week, and for two (or three) consecutive days I do not have to work.
Laguna Beach, CA/Newport Beach, CA/Phoenix, AZ:  This is our big daddy of a trip for the year.  Instead of a couple of more camping trips, we are heading out to Phoenix, AZ to meet up with my brother in law and future sister in law, then driving to Laguna Beach, CA for their wedding, and staying in Newport Beach, CA.  This is completely a family trip, which means we have to make everyone happy, not just the boys and I.  :)  We have planned one day in Disneyland, maybe a winery or brewery, and the beach.  I would like to take the boys to the seal refuge and explore some canyons.  I would also like to go to the zoo, but lets face it.  We have some pretty cool zoos near us.

I hope that you all enjoy reading about the adventures this summer, as I know I will enjoy writing about them to save for the boys when they get bigger.  Pierce and Carter; I could not ask for better roadtrip buddies than you guys.  I cannot wait to explore, learn, and grow with you this summer, and of course, for the rest of your lives.  You are amazing little men, with the kindest hearts and softest souls.  Your innate tenderness melts my heart, and inspires me to be a better person each day.  Thank you again for being my children.  I am honored, and I hope I am half the mom you guys deserve.