play date at Oregon Ridge Nature Center

Hmm, what's making that sound? Mom, can I pet the rooster?

Hey Conner, what's so funny?

We had a mellow outing at Oregon Ridge Nature Center this week. It was a mild day for a morning hike, plus E was ready for a change of scenery. Oregon Ridge is a HUGE nature preserve with a rustic nature center. There's always plenty to explore there, even for toddlers.

My friend and I met up and brought our babes. Not quite a year apart, both tots enjoy gazing up at the trees making sounds or waving to fellow hikers passing by. We wore our kids during the hike (so you'll notice I didn't take any pictures)...he's not as light as he used to be! I think it's safe to say I need to retire the bjorn. He'll be two in November and he's getting more solid all the time! Still, fresh air in the woods was peaceful for all of us.

A highlight for the boys was the chicken coop, complete with a rooster cock-a-doodle-dooing. There is also an old house that is used for archaeological studies, which E took a liking to.

Oregon Ridge is free for visitors, so if you're in the area, I highly recommend checking out the nature center and trails! There is a lake in the old quarry where you can go swimming, along with a playground (although there is a small fee for the lake). They are also planning natural play area, following in our footsteps at Irvine. It will be fun to visit once it's complete!