A Bay Area Day of Hiking, Butterflies, and a Carousel

A Saturday in mid-June, 2008. We started the day with a short hike on a dirt trail somewhere in the Bay Area. The sun was bright, and the scrubby bushes lining the path were a deep green against the dry ground.

From there, we went to a butterfly exhibit. It was one of those enclosed gardens, warm and humid inside. We stood still for a long time, and eventually, a few butterflies came to check us out, landing on our hands. The kids were mesmerized, watching the delicate insects from inches away. It was a completely captivating experience for them, just quietly observing. Even the baby got in on the nature-watching, looking at some small pink flowers just outside the enclosure.

We capped off the afternoon with a ride on a carousel. She picked a shiny red horse and held on tight, smiling as we went around. It was a classic local weekend day—a bit of hiking, some time with nature, and a simple ride to end it all.