Carkeek Park

We in Seattle are lucky to have so many gorgeous parks within a short drive (or walk).

As a full-time mom I spend LOTS of time at parks, usually alone with Gigi, but sometimes with other mothers. The real treat is having a family outing where the four of us can appreciate the beauty together (insert cheesy smile here).

My all-time favorite nature park is Carkeek. We try to make it out there at least once a season, but we have yet to explore all the trails that weave throughout.

My first visit there over a year ago, I was in awe. I thought it might be where I'd go to die. Maybe that's a tad dramatic, but I did enjoy myself. The peaceful stroll, the scent of moist greenery, the cool trickling streams - heaven.

You can choose to walk the trails, have a picnic, or head to the playground up the hill from the flat expanse of grass in the middle (where we had our picnic). From the playground area you have the view and the smell of the Sound. I think you can even go down to the water, but we haven't done that yet either.

While we ate our sandwiches, Robin had the idea to organize a Picnic Club each summer. Once a month we'd send out an Evite with the location of that month's picnic. Whoever wanted to be on the email list could join. I LOVE the idea. A party a month at virtually no cost and no clean-up! Stay posted for next summer.

When we left the park I imagined how incredible it will look in the next couple spectacular autumn months. We will surely be back. Maybe with soup in our basket.