What better day to start our year long journey than on a beautiful Easter Sunday at Starved Rock. I hadn't been to Starved Rock since I was close to Lilia's age. This was a last minute trip and I found out today that Fran had never been there either. Three out of four newbies isn't bad! With the kids going on a breakfast of Easter candy, we started our trip with screaming over who could play which hand held video game. Fortunately, once we got to the park and got out to run in the fresh air, they forgot all about that and were ready for an outdoor adventure. The park ranger at the Visitor's Center recommended we walk the Starved Rock path and then head over to the French Canyon loop. Both turned out to have quite a bit of steep hills and stairs. Good thing we had our resident pack mule, Daddy, to carry Franky on his shoulders. The kids loved it nonetheless and the rocky cliff views and half frozen waterfalls were worth the trek. Afterward we had a pretty delicious lunch at The Back Door Lounge and enjoyed two Starved Rock Signature Ales. Who knew they had their own beer? I felt a little guilty about leaving the dog at home after seeing everyone walking their pups throughout the park. We'll definitely make the trip back here in the summer. Next time, with dog in tow.
