Foliage, hike, and picnic along Rock Creek

While we were shopping at IKEA on Saturday, Mike and Lisa called to see if we wanted to join them at Great Falls on the Potomac for some hiking.  The timing didn't work out but did motivate us to do some hiking with Avery later in the afternoon.  We packed a picnic lunch and headed down to Rock Creek Park by our house, and went into the District where there are many dirt trails great for a nice hike through the woods to view the foliage and play in the water.  Once we told Avery we were going to play in the river, Kylie said she wanted to go too-so we took the dog as well.

We found a nice spot by the river on a side trail to enjoy the sounds of the water, the trails here are very frequented by all sorts of users: joggers, dog walkers, and horses!

 Kylie undaunted by an approaching horse and rider:

 Then headed off into the woods on a hike:

We found a great little "beach" to put our stuff down, so Avery and mommy could explore the river:

Avery loved picking up pebble and tossing them:

Avery in mid-hop in front of some colorful trees:

Kylie in mid-stride chasing a tennis ball, or a stick, or squirrel, or who know what:

A little girl who loves exploring:

After some more hiking, we saw some deer (Kylie froze at that sight), and tired little Avery out, she took a nice nap on momma's shoulder and took in the pretty foliage:

We feel so lucky to live right next to this park, it is perfect for long runs and for Avery to explore.  Especially in the fall, with foliage like this who can not be impressed with this little piece of the DC area?

We've also started taking daily neighborhood walks with Avery on a loop through our neighborhood.  Our street is busy but a few houses up is a looped street with almost no cars on it, so we let Avery out to run around.  We check out houses in the neighborhood, or enjoy the foliage, etc.

We usually start with a wagon or tricycle until she wants to hop out an run.  We've actually met some really cook neighbors doing this too!  Once when we passed a house with two young girls and a dog out front we started talking, then they invited us in to play (since the two girls and Avery bonded immediately), and then they offered us a beer, and then dinner.  We realized we all had common interests and next thing you know we were all friends!  (even Kylie and their dog...)