It’s been a few weeks since we hit the road and this weekend finds us in Bellingham, Washington. My niece and sister are accompanying us from Alaska as the trip is primarily to move my niece into her dorm at Western Washington University. But our family loves Bellingham and never turns down a chance to visit the area.

I had fond memories of camping in the area years before the little guy joined us and specifically the magic of the tide pools around Larabee State Park. Purple, red and orange sea stars clinging to rocks as the tide recedes, often leaving tiny fish flopping and exposed to the hungry gulls hopping around looking for the next meal. I couldn’t wait to share this with little.

Did I mention it’s been years since I’ve been there? I forgot where the trailhead started so the first half-hour we hiked in the absolute wrong direction.

The trailhead actually begins just behind the amphitheater by the Larabee State Park day use parking lot. You walk down stairs and through a tunnel under the railroad, where the trails split. Going right takes you down the stairs to a beachy area, perfect for picnicking. We were treated to a violin concert on the beach. Turning left takes you to the vast rocky coast and tide polls galore, unless you come in at high tide. Note to self: check tides. No matter, we will be back.

After a few hours of hiking in the sun, we headed back into town. My niece wanted us to go to Mallard Ice Cream, a delightful and busy little shop. With interesting flavors like Thai Basil or Nerds flavor, it was a hit. Little loved looking at the duck decorations as we waited in line and decided on a root beer ice cream scoop. My sister won the night with her pick of black pepper bourbon. Just wow.

Our tired and dirty crew was happy to fall into big comfy beds after the ice cream. Well, one little fell into a bath first – ice cream all over his face, sand in his toes and mud everywhere. That’s how you measure a good adventure.