We were due for an adventure

Brent finished his third year officially last Thursday and we both wanted to celebrate. He wanted a long nap and a quiet house. I wanted a fun dad to take us all on a family adventure. In the end, after a little nagging, I won.

We packed the van with kids and a picnic lunch and headed off Friday afternoon just as the rain clouds began rolling in. I had read a blog about a family outing in Chestnut Ridge Park and have been dying to go there with the kids to hike up to the waterfall of the Eternal Flame. According to this blogger, it was a great outing for the whole family. He had a 2 sons under 6 and had taken them there.

We started off the hike with a picnic lunch in the pouring rain. It got so bad we finally ditched the picnic table for shelter under a tree. Caroline had to go and in the process of assisting her she sprayed all over the back over her pants. Then Camille had to go and I was began thinking that maybe I am not as adventurous as I thought I was that morning.

After about 10 minutes under the tree the rain let up and we took a vote if we should pack it up or proceed with the hike. Our 1.5 mile trail ahead looked really muddy. It was 5-1 to go ahead, Kennon was the lone objector. No surprise.

So, off we went. In 2 minutes we were in the creek, had soggy sneakers, and were all having a great time.

Turns out that almost the entire hike is down the creek bed. I now remembered that he recommended taking this hike in the winter or late fall. We weren't swimming, but let's just say by the end, Caroline wasn't the only one with a wet bum. Marcus was mad he had to be held and couldn't wade with the rest of the kids. Here is a rare moment that we set him down just for a photo op.

The big finale is at the end of the hike. I was busy wading and admiring the view when suddenly I realized my children were climbing up the face of the waterfall! Turns out that's how you get out of there. (Unless you want to hike the mile back through the creek.) So that's Caroline 1/2 way up the wall. When I came later with Brent and Marcus I was amazed that no one fell. It was steep and slippery. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone under 8. But we all made it!
It's hard to see, but behind Marcus and I is the natural gas vent that is lit right behind the falls. I can't figure out how anyone ever found it and lit it in the first place.
I am amazed at the beauties all around us living here in Western NY. There is always an aventure to be found just a few miles away.