Sunday, October 16, 2016

Bradenton River Walk

Our family has always enjoyed walking, running, etc.
True, we have our times when we all sit on the couch and tell stories, and laugh, and joke, and carry on like there's no tomorrow;  but, those of you who have been readers of our blog for a little while, have probably noticed that our posts were oftentimes about moving.  Going somewhere, doing something, out and about ;) 

One of our favorites is slipping on our shoes and simply going for a walk someplace with pretty scenery.  Our house is surrounded by woods, and we get to explore those whenever we wish, so I appreciate walks through open areas, in particular.   Bradenton's River Walk is located in Manatee County, FL - and this beautiful spot along the wharf is known for it's Manatee's!  It's so neat to see different species of birds, fish and mammals that we don't get to enjoy up here in Virginia! :)




Looking at the fish ... 

... and keeping an eye on the nearby heron.


OH. OH. OH.  Sorry ... but I just LOVE those teal colors! 

I don't think Lydia wanted to be in the picture ;) 





I love her spunky personality! :) 




... FISH STORIES ...


My parents are so cute ;) 


Nathan decided to jump and grab the tree branch.  I missed it the first time, but he kindly agreed to do it again for the sake of the camera :) 




He is growing up SO fast!  Already taller than me :( 




These goof-balls brought a smile to my face! :D 








These train tracks are no longer used, but the setting of the wood against the water still makes them gorgeous as ever.  We had fun climbing on them (well, they climbed, and I took pictures ;) ) and finding out just how good our sense of balance really was ....  ;) 











Towards the end of the evening, it started raining us out ... 









Lydia wanted to take a picture of Elise without being noticed ... but of course, I wanted to take a picture of the picture, and she kept trying to distract me.  This is as good as I could get XD 



And what's an outing without some humor and laughter?! 


We are so blessed to have special family times together.  Often, I take for granted the fact that I live in God-honoring, loving home ... that is, until I get out in the world and see all the hurting hearts and miserable people.   

Thank You, Lord!